A Wirral community cycling organisation is appealing for unwanted bikes in the run-up to Christmas.
As the cost of living crisis pushes hard-working families into poverty, a newly formed group, Energise Cycles, is looking to help by refurbishing unwanted bicycles ready for use by another child, or their parent, at a heavily discounted rate.
Energise Cycles also offers bike servicing at an affordable price and leads training courses on how to maintain a bike, demonstrating basic fixes and running sessions on the Highway Code.
Based in Seacombe, Energise Cycles has been set up to make bikes affordable and sustainable for lower income families while reducing waste and helping cyclists stay safer on the road.
Hollie Burnett and Joe Grant set up Energise Cycles because they are passionate about cycling and helping the community. They run ‘Doctor Bike’ Workshops at community centres and events to raise awareness, build bridges, and create community cohesion. They often reach people who would not have come to a workshop for a bike service.
They also run community rides to increase social and personal mobility and look at all the benefits exercise has for mental and physical health.
There’s a focus on safety policies, helping bike owners stay safe and follow the rules to help all road users.
Inspired by the work done by Energise Cycles, Seacombe’s Labour ward councillors have provided funding to help the group refurbish bikes for the Seacombe children’s centre through the Wirral Together Fund. These bikes will be given to families across the ward.
Cllr Paul Stuart said, “Energise Cycles provides affordable bicycles and reduce waste by giving old bikes a new lease of life. Supported by Seacombe Ward Councillors with the Wirral Together Fund, The Seacombe bike project takes this one step further, providing bikes to the Seacombe children’s centre, which will distribute them to those who will benefit from them most.
“It was great to see the delivery of the first eight bikes to Seacombe Children’s Centre, with more deliveries due in the run-up to Christmas. If you are in the Seacombe area and would be interested in accessing The Seacombe Bike Project, please get in touch with Seacombe Children’s Centre on 666 3506”
This project promotes active travel for families and children, helping people live healthier lifestyles.
To donate bikes, book a place in a workshop or enquire about a reduced-cost refurbished bike, contact Energise Cycles at www.energisecycles.co.uk 
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