Heart-shaped bike rack appears in Union Street

One of the vivid red bike stands can be found in Union Street, opposite Transport for London's Palestra offices.

The heart-shaped stands are an adapted version of the Cyclehoop – first seen on Union Street back in 2008 – which converts existing street furniture into secure bike parking.

"As well as celebrating the journeys and relationships we make across London, the eye-catching red installations are designed to generate support for the British Heart Foundation," said Graham McLoughlin.

Each of the special bike stands is accompanied by a sticker with a text message shortcode for donations to the charity.

Cyclehoop founder Anthony Lau, said: "We love designing funky street furniture and when Graham approached me asking if we could come up with a heart shaped Cyclehoop bike rack, I was more than happy to help.

"It seemed like a great creative opportunity to put a smile on someone's face, and promote the love of cycling whilst providing more secure bike parking in the city. All of this whilst supporting a charity we are passionate for."

• In a separate cycling-related initiative for St Valentine's Day, the London Bicycle Repair Shop in Hatfields is repeating its 'Love Your Bike' offer and will oil your bicycle's chain for free on Saturday 14 February.