Free bike checks to encourage people to cycle

Cycling is good for you and the environment, the founder of Frome Community Bike Project said

A community bike project that started out organising yearly bike jumble sales for charity is offering free bike checks to help "get more people out on bikes".

The 'Dr Bike' sessions, where cyclists of all abilities are given bike checks and advice, are being run by The Frome Community Bike Project (FCBP).

It is part of the Great Big Green Week - a national celebration of climate activism - which is running until 18 June.

FCBP founder, Emma Parker, said: "It's such a good thing for the environment, for your own health, physically and mentally."

The sessions will take place at its workshop at Station Approach in Frome.

'Out in nature'

Ms Parker said that the free bike checks are "great for building confidence", because there are "so many simple repairs people can do themselves".

FCBP has been selling upcycled bikes for the past four years and now offers workshops as well. It also hires out e-bikes, and runs guided rides.

"It's about getting out and enjoying the countryside, being more physically active," Ms Parker continued.

"So if we can get people's bikes checked and get them back on the road, that's working towards that mission."