Free bicycle hire is giving Darlington residents a new lease of life.
The scheme, which is part of the Local Motion initiative, has already proved popular with many people and this success is something the team are hoping to build on.
Sandra Smith, 48, who couldn’t ride a bike, was the first resident to take advantage of the cycling scheme. Sandra said, “I was worried that the cycling training was only available to children and teenagers, and adults wouldn’t be eligible.
“I was over the moon when I was told that not only could I take a bike home for four weeks but I would also get my own instructor; I couldn’t wait to get started.”
Sandra has become such a dedicated cyclist that she took part in a charity bike ride for Children in Need.
Bikes are also available for people wanting to ride to work with chain guards, mud guards and a pannier rack to keep smart clothes clean. All bikes come with a lock and puncture repair kit.
To apply for the scheme please contact Greg McDougall on (01325) 388721.