A PILOT scheme of a new community cycling initiative run by Warrington’s LiveWire has been hailed a ‘massive success’.
The new scheme – Warrington Community Bike Project – was a first for the borough and got underway late last year following a £3.5K grant from Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane.
It teaches young people bicycle maintenance skills over a six week period – with participants being given their rebuilt bike to keep at the end of the six-week course and receiving a certificate of attendance.
The project is a partnership between LiveWire, Warrington Police and Cycling Projects – a Warrington-based charity enabling all to be active regardless of ability through the mode of cycling. The project aims to help build community cohesion and promote cycling as a form of getting active.
Three pupils from Culcheth High School recently completed the course, with the next wave of the project already underway involving students from Penketh High School and adult learners from McIntyre’s Greater Communities scheme.
The latest programme has a number of new elements being introduced including imput from Cheshire Fire & Rescue on road safety and first aid and their ‘Pedal Smart’ initiative.
Paul Flannery, community sports development officer for LiveWire said: “The first bike project was a massive success. The engagement from all participants was brilliant and has given them some key life skills. The technicians and volunteers are all overwhelmed by the success of the pilot scheme, in which there has been a lot of interest in. We are confident that it can grow further throughout 2020.”
One pupil who took part said: “The bike project was great. I learned lots of different skills. The staff were very friendly and made us all feel welcome.”
Cycling initiative hailed as a “massive success”
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