Scheme to donate bikes to Wigan key workers hailed a success

The programme was launched last month by Inspiring healthy lifestyles, Wigan Council and Gearing Up Cycle Workshop.

Wiganers were asked to donate unwanted bikes which would be reconditioned and sold to key workers at a low cost.

Residents have been thanked for their generosity as bicycles, helmets and locks are now in the hands of dozens of people who have been keeping the borough going during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Simon Dale from Gearing Up said: “The support we received after the first call for donations was amazing. It has been great to get the first set of bikes out to key workers and we know it will make such a difference to their lives.

“We want to make sure bikes are accessible to everyone and we still need quality donations so we can get bikes to key workers at a low cost.”

Inspiring healthy lifestyles has also been passing on free advice on safe cycling.

Richard Smith, Inspiring healthy lifestyles' sports engagement officer, said: “Over 1.3million bikes have been sold in the UK during lockdown. People have had to rethink the way they commute and many have found themselves with more time to exercise due to working from home or being placed on furlough.

"We want to be able to get bikes to those that may otherwise not be able to afford them.

“Not only is cycling a greener and cheaper way to commute, but it also does wonders for your health, lowers stress and is a great way to unwind after a day at work”.

The Recycle to Work project is also in line with Wigan Council’s commitment to encouraging more people to cycle and walk .

The local authority has a long-term sustainable travel plan and is supporting the regional Safe Streets Save Lives campaign encouraging the 10 councils in Greater Manchester to make changes so cyclists and pedestrians can travel safely while sticking to social distancing measures.

Coun Jim Moodie, lead member for leisure at Wigan Council said: “Re-Cycle to Work is a fantastic project that acknowledges the dedication and hard-work of our key workers, while also supporting one of the council’s wider long term initiatives.

“We’re delighted to hear that almost 100 bikes have been donated in the last six weeks and look forward to being able to support even more of the borough’s key workers to choose their bikes over their cars, while also providing them with a relaxing pastime.”

Donations are still needed, with the team particularly looking for high-quality bicycles which can be given to key workers quickly with few repairs.

Anyone designated a key worker who wants a bicycle can email [email protected] or phone 01942 488481.

Donated bikes should be in a reasonable condition and can be taken to Central Park between 9am and 3pm Monday to Friday or the Gearing Up workshop at The Brick on Hodson Street between 9am and 5pm any weekday.

Bikes can also be collected Monday to Friday. Email or ring using the contact details above to find out more.