Bike Library scheme looks to extend across Yorkshire

Groups and businesses across Yorkshire are encouraged to apply for funding to set up bike libraries in the county.

The first Yorkshire Bank Bike Library was established in December with the aim of giving everyone in the county access to a bike.

Now, community groups, charities and not-for-profit businesses are being invited to make applications for funding to set up their own libraries.

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The public are asked to donate old or unwanted bikes at a number of deposit stations in the county, including York, Bradford, Sheffield and Todmorden, after which the public can borrow one for a day or for several months.

Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “This is a great opportunity to give community organisations and those passionate about cycling a helping hand to make a difference, and in turn expand this ground-breaking project to give young people access to a bike.”

The Yorkshire Bank Bike Libraries scheme was set up as a legacy of the Tour de France Grand Départ and was launched by five-time Tour winner, Bernard Hinault.

Find out more about the project and where to donate your old bikes at www.bikelibraries.co.uk