People in Cheshire who have disabilities will be able to experience the benefits of cycling thanks to a unique new initiative.
Brio Leisure will be hosting free tandem cycle sessions for anyone unable to ride a bike safely on their own, in a collaboration between the charity Charlotte’s Tandems and Mencap, which loans cycles to the disabled.
The sessions will take place on the athletics track at Ellesmere Port Sports Village and are described as a ‘fantastic’ way for those with disabilities to keep fit.
Two riders will be allowed on the tandem cycles, normally a passenger and ‘captain’ who controls the bikes, which are loaned out to those with disabilities for agreed periods from two months upwards.
Anthony Annakin-Smith, chairman of Brio, said: “Cycling is a great way to keep fit and explore your surroundings freely. By using tandem bikes, cycling is available to those with disabilities, or those unable to safely ride a bike alone.
“As these sessions are being held on the athletics track, they’re in a completely safe environment away from traffic and the pressures of cycling on the open road,” he added.
Brio is running the scheme alongside with Kate and Alex Reeves, whose daughter Charlotte suffers from autism and learning difficulties.
They established the charity, which is supported by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, when they discovered how much Charlotte enjoyed joining them on cycle rides.
Brian MacDonald, the charity’s organiser for Cheshire, said: “We’re delighted that Brio Leisure are on board to help us get the message out that anyone who lives with a disability or a special need in Cheshire West and Chester has the opportunity to experience the fun of cycling.”
The free sessions are on Monday October 26 from 7.15pm – 9.15pm and Sunday November 22 from 10.30am – 12.30pm at Ellesmere Port Sports Village.
Cycle helmets and hi-visibility tabards will be available to use on the day for those without safety equipment. For more information visit: www.brioleisure.org
