Bikes for all at charity

Streetbikes, a community cycling group, has put together the project, which aims to bring able bodied and disabled cyclists together.

It was launched by Kirklees Mayor Coun Martyn Bolt, a cycling enthusiast, and Paralympic wheelchair sprinter Paul Cartwright.

The event, which took place at Spen track at the Princess Mary Stadium, Littletown, included races, such as a blind husband and wife who raced each other on tandems and a relay race for disabled and able bodied riders.

At the event, Streetbikes’ challenge to raise money for a wheelchair bike was launched. The group is taking on a 25 mile ride on part of the Tour de France route, including Holme Moss, on July 6.

Proceeds go to the wheelchair bike fund.

Gill Greaves, who runs Streetbikes, said more than 100 people came to the launch and were queueing up to use equipment.

She said the wheelchair bike, which costs £5,000, would be available for people to use at Streetbikes sessions.

Streetbikes also recycle bikes and give them to people who cannot afford to buy one, as well as people with health problems who would benefit from cycling – and has given away more than 900 in the past 12 months.

It has now started to recycle adapted bikes and has just given away its first one.

Gill added: “Our sessions work because you don’t need a bike to attend. Many who attend sessions now join us for our general rides on the Greenway. This has had an amazing positive effect on their lives.

Anyone can enter the Tour de France challenge – just turn up on the day. The event starts at Gynn Lane, Honley,at 9am.

For more information contact Gill on 07873 773417.

l See our websites for a video of the launch and the races.