Charity helps people get on their bikes
A charity is urging people to get on its bike with its latest project – selling refurbished cycles to people without transport.
The Furniture Scheme charity, set up 22 years ago to ensure south Shropshire residents on low incomes could furnish their homes, will next week expand to include secondhand bicycles.
The Ludlow-based charity decided on the move after the donation of a large amount of cycling equipment.
Operations manager James Cooper said: “We are delighted to be able to offer bikes for sale as well as the furniture and other goods here.
“People who need transport could pick up a very high-spec bike for not a lot of money thanks to the donations and help we’ve received.
"We’ve built up quite a collection and will have both adult and children's bikes for sale.”
The charity has been donated parts by their partners Reviive and Ludlow’s Epic cycles.
And anyone looking to buy a bike can get 10per cent off as part of an introductory offer which runs until August 31.
The charity has also trained people in the area how to construct or repair a bike from parts to help them build to gain self esteem.
Mr Cooper said: “We have seen many people learn new skills in furniture restoration as part of the work that goes on in the warehouse, now it is time to offer something new for others who may be interested."
He said the charity had been looking to move into bike sales for some time, and was delighted to finally provide the service.
He added that any profits would be ploughed back into the charity's work.
“Cycling is such a positive activity as it keeps people fit but also helps people access employment opportunities if they are without a car," Mr Cooper said.
“We want those who can’t afford to buy new to be able to access good quality, refurbished bikes at affordable prices."
The charity was initially formed to address concerns about the amount of waste going to landfill.
It recycles or repairs donated furniture and household goods before passing them on to those in need or selling them to raise much needed funds at one of their shops.
The bike shop will be based at the Warehouse in Weeping Cross Lane, Ludlow. It also runs Renaissance on Tower Street, Ludlow, and the Charity Bookshop and CasCA in Craven Arms.
For more information about the Furniture Scheme visit the website www.furniturescheme.co.uk, email james@furniturescheme.co.uk or telephone 01584 874922.
