TWO Oxford cyclists have been included in a list of 100 women who inspire others to get on their bikes.

Alison Hill, who chairs Cyclox and The Bikeability Trust and pens regular On Yer Bike columns for the Oxford Mail, was recognised for her years of promoting the benefits of cycling.

Meanwhile, Liz Bingham was included after she founded VeloVixen, which has encouraged thousands of women to get more out of cycling.

They join famous names including triple Olympic medallist and Oxfordshire resident Victoria Pendleton, paralympian Dame Sarah Storey and TV presenter Orla Chennaoui.

Read also: Hi-tech traffic sensors will give cyclists and pedestrians a boost

The list was created alongside Cycling UK's Women's Festival of Cycling, which runs throughout July and aims to address the gender imbalance on two wheels.

It is estimated that many more bike journeys are made by men than women, with a recent YouGov poll finding 36 per cent of women said they would be inspired to cycle more with the encouragement of friends and family.

To help boost participation, Cycling UK is challenging every female cyclist in the UK to enlist at least one more woman to start cycling through July.

The awards were presented at a Parliamentary reception in Westminster at the beginning of the month.

Read also: Witney cyclist raises £2,000 for charity that helped his wife

The ceremony came after more than 150 women cycled to the House of Commons to raise awareness of female cycling.

Helen Cook, head of engagement at Cycling UK, said: “Congratulations to Alison and Liz for making it onto our 100 Women in Cycling for 2019.

"It’s an incredible achievement and testimony to the tireless work she’s done to raise the profile of women’s cycling.

“Every woman on our list is an incredible ambassador for women’s cycling, but sadly women remain underrepresented when it comes to everyday cycling.

“The gauntlet we’re throwing down is for every woman who already cycles regularly to find just one more woman they can help and inspire to get on their bike.”

Read also: Eynsham hosts public meeting on A40 upgrades

TV personality and one of the 100 women, Angellica Bell, said: “Wouldn’t it be amazing if every female cyclist in this country persuaded just one more woman to take up cycling. Imagine the difference that could make.

“Cycling is not only one of the most enjoyable ways of getting around, it’s great for your health, fitness and the environment.”

Women’s Festival of Cycling takes place throughout July with events around the UK.