‘Amazing’ recycling project gives old bicycles a new lease of life

A bike recycling project which helps people with learning difficulties prepare for work has been presented with more than 100 abandoned cycles by the social landlord Cross Keys Homes.

The bikes, which had been dumped or were removed from communal areas in blocks of flats where they presented a fire risk, had been collected by CKH’s estate rangers.

Huntingdon-based TAG is part of Cambridgeshire County Council’s Supporting Into Work programme which helps people with learning difficulties by creating a work-style environment to build up their confidence and skills as a way in to employment.

Members of the not-for-profit organisation repair and service donated bikes which are then sold.

Claire Higgins, CKH chief executive, said: “CKH is really pleased that these bikes will get a new lease of life and support so many people in the process. Getting people into work is something that is very important to us as an organisation, and TAG Bikes is a truly superb project, giving vital skills to so many people.

“We are keen to help to support community initiatives in Huntingdon, as we build more homes in the district. Plus, this project is an amazing way to reduce waste and protect precious resources by recycling in the most practical way possible.”

TAG Bikes, in Ambury Road, has been running for three years and has worked with 25 learners, helping seven in to a mixture of both paid and voluntary placements. It is open from 9am-3.30pm Monday to Friday.

CKH tries to reunite abandoned bikes with their owners but finds a new home for them if it is unable to do so.