A Balham biker has gone into the cycling community’s record books by becoming the rider of the one millionth Barclays cycle hire journey.

And as a special thank you, the banking giant awarded 37-year-old Rupert Parson and three friends annual membership of the scheme for five years - as well as a cycling makeover at Bobbins Bicycles in Islington.

Mr Parson said: “It was a complete surprise, and I have to say that I thought it might be a practical joke when first took the phone call.

“I normally commute on my bicycle along a cycle superhighway, but there are times when I have to take the Tube, and on those days the Barclays bikes are perfect for taking me the last mile to work.

“I use the hire bikes regularly along the South Bank, between Waterloo station and work, and for nipping around town in the evenings and at the weekends.”

Mr Parson added he was looking forward to his cycling makeover as he hoped to find something different to his usual lycra.

The Mayor of London’s cycle hire scheme, racked up one million rides within 10 weeks of its launch across the capital, according to Transport for London.

Deanna Oppenheimer, chief exec of UK Retail Bank and vice chair of Global Retail Bank, said: “We're delighted to be able to reward Rupert for such an historic milestone in the history of Barclays Cycle Hire.

“Along with more than 100,000 other members, he has become a pioneer of the innovative scheme since its launch.

“To achieve the millionth journey in ten weeks was fantastic and we look forward to Londoners continuing to embrace the scheme.”

For tips on how to dress stylishly when cycling around London, check out TfL’s Cycle Fashion Style film on Youtube, or for more information visit tfl.gov.uk/barclayscyclehire