Community cycle hub opened to aid green travel

Co-founder of a bicycle hub says the new community space in Reading is "more than just bicycles".

From bicycle riders to skateboarders and rollerbladers, a new hub hopes to make the county "a little bit greener".

A new bike hub has opened in the new Mothercare building, in Reading town centre, the community space is "more than just bicycles" organisers say.

There have been hopes for a bike hub in town for a while, after previous plans for a hub in Primark fell through.

Co-founder of the bike hub, Kat Heath said: "It's about helping people move to greener and healthier travel options."

Ms Heath explained it's not just a bike club, it is all things wheels at this point.

She said: "You can get bike repairs, refurbished and donated bikes.

"We are currently trying to set up a bike library for children - so as your child grows you can come by and exchange the bike for one that fits them.

"We've got skateboarders downstair, a little balancing bike at the back, a repair cafe and we are really trying to make this a place for the community, that people can come in and use the space."

She said that she hopes there is something for everyone in the community space.

She said it's also there to help people who get about on a bike, but are struggling financially.

"We are looking to sell cheap bikes, we can exchange or swap bikes, its about what you can afford.

"So, if you are having a really bad day and can't afford the repairs let us know, no questions asked.

"If you can afford to pay a little bit more, then that would be really kind."

She added: "I think what we desperately need is donated bikes, especially kids bikes so that we can help people that aren't in a good position."