A cycling project in Birmingham is to host a special event this month aimed at encouraging more people to get on their bikes.
As part of this year's Team Green Britain Bike Week 2010, iCycle - formerly Harborne Cycle Surgery - on Harborne High Street is inviting the public to discover more about cycling, its environmental benefits, the costs and Birmingham's cycle routes.
There'll also be an opportunity to test-drive a number of makes and models and receive some expert advice.
The intitiative comes following a recent survey by Cycle Plus magazine on cyclist-friendly cities in the UK placed Birmingham 19th out of 20.
Shaun Jones, manager of iCycle, said: “Whether you’re doing your bit to save the environment, looking to take advantage of Birmingham’s improved cycle routes (for example the Harborne Walkway) or making the most of a company or government voucher scheme, there are lots of incentives to cycle."
A registered charity, run by Queen Alexandra College, iCycle is a social enterprise which opened in 1978 as a cycle repair workshop. The college trains mature students with disabilities in the cycle training department to become repair and maintenance mechanics. As a not-for-profit venture, any proceeds made from sales go back to the college and into improving the lives of the visually impaired community it supports.
The open day at iCycle is on Thursday, June, 24, from 10.30am to 12.30pm, and again from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. Refreshments will be available.
Everyone who attends has the chance to enter a prize draw to win free gym membership or a selection of cycling accessories. There will also be opportunity on the day to sign up for the QAC-sponsored cycle ride (from Harborne to Wolverhampton and back) on the July 18.
Team Green Britain Bike Week 2010 runs from Saturday, June 19, to Sunday, June 27.
