A North East community project is encouraging adults to rediscover the freedom of cycling with free guided rides, bike lessons and repairs available through its Cycle Hub.
Full Circle Food Project, which also operates the Cycle Hub, is helping adults overcome nerves and build confidence on two wheels, whether they are returning to cycling after many years or learning the basics for the first time.
The Bicycle Hub offers free guided rides every Tuesday, starting at 10.30am. The rides are specifically designed for people who may feel nervous about getting back on a bike and follow routes which avoid roads wherever possible.
The typical rides cover around five to seven miles and provide a relaxed way for participants to build up their confidence in a supportive environment.
For anyone who does not have a bike, the Cycle Hub can provide one, while helmets are also available for those who need them.
The project also provides free adult cycling lessons which begin with basic skills such as getting on and off a bike, balancing, moving off and controlling the bike. Participants can progress through different levels, with further tuition available on the road for those who are ready.
Lessons are generally provided on a one-to-one basis or in very small groups, making them particularly suitable for adults who may lack confidence.
The Cycle Hub is also home to a bike workshop, offering repairs, servicing, puncture repairs, replacement parts and upgrades, helping people keep their bikes safe and roadworthy.
Among those involved is Lee Malarkey, who brings considerable cycling experience to the project. Lee has been racing BMX since the early 1980s and competed at British Championship level, finishing second in the British Championships in 1984. He was also ranked number one in the North East for several years and competed in BMX events at both national and UK level.
Lee said the Bicycle Hub was about much more than simply fixing bikes.
“It’s about getting people back on their bikes and giving them the confidence to enjoy cycling again,” he said.
“For some people, getting back on a bike after many years can be quite daunting. Having somebody alongside you, a suitable bike and a safe route make a huge difference.
“And if the bike has been sitting in the garage for years and needs some attention, we can help with that too.”
The Tuesday guided rides are particularly aimed at adults who might otherwise be reluctant to cycle on their own.
Participants can turn up with their own bike and helmet, or the Cycle Hub can help provide what they need.
The project is also keen to emphasise that you do not have to be an experienced cyclist to take part.
Whether someone wants to learn how to ride, regain confidence, improve their cycling skills, get their old bike working again or simply enjoy a gentle ride with other people, the Cycle Hub is there to help.
The message from Full Circle Food Project is simple: it’s never too late to get back on a bike.
ENDS
Photo: Lee Marlarkey and fellow Cycle Hub volunteer Brett Harrison (Highlights PR)
PR and Media keitH@highlightspr.co.uk 07814 397915