Bicycles sought for recycling by prisoners

Unwanted bicycles are wanted for refurbishment, to be sold on through community groups

A collection day for old bicycles is being held in Kent.

The donation day is being held at Swale House car park in Sittingbourne on 5 October, from 09:00 to 11:00 BST.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Sittingbourne, there will also be collections of food and unwanted clothing.

The donated bikes will be refurbished by prisoners at HMP Swaleside, before being sold on through community groups.

In turn, the prisoners earn City & Guilds qualifications to help in their rehabilitation and employment prospects on release.

The scheme has already seen over 100 bikes refurbished and sold on at £10 each, making it self-financing.

Sateda, a Swale-based charity which helps women and children who have suffered domestic abuse and violence, will be collecting clothing.

The charity's Medway volunteer co-ordinator Valerie Williams said: “During the summer demand for children's wear has been high and our stocks of children's age 2-15 clothing and shoes are running low.

“If you have these items which have been outgrown or are no longer needed, and they are clean and in good condition, we would be grateful if you could please bring them along to this event where we will have a donation drop point.”