30 free bikes help students get into gear

Students from Adelaide Primary School have been given free bikes to encourage more active travel.

30 students were loaned the bikes for one year as part of a scheme called The Bike Library by local charity R-evolution, which aims to make cycling an accessible form of transport, allowing them to travel more independently over the summer holidays and into the new school year.

The bikes were handed out to students by John Marshall, chief executive of R-evolution, and Councillor Daren Hale, Leader of Hull City Council.

Macey Smith, parent at Adelaide Primary School, said: “I think it’s a brilliant idea and it keeps children active and encourages them to get out.”

Miss Hughes, teacher at Adelaide Primary School: “It’s been amazing to see all the children so happy and appreciative of their bikes! Such a great idea.”

Councillor Daren Hale, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “I know many residents want to take advantage of the cycling renaissance and as we build the infrastructure to facilitate this, I am delighted that we can work with R-evolution who can provide the tools to make this happen.

“We understand that navigating the city’s roads can be a daunting prospect, but with the installation of safer cycling routes we hope that more people will take advantage of cycling.

“Cycling not only improves our physical and mental health, but also helps towards reducing polluting carbon emissions.”

Hanna, events and comms coordinator at R-evolution: “Projects like these are the ones that make a difference. A small gesture which brings an exciting experience to a child who may not otherwise get the opportunity to own a bike, giving them a sense of responsibility and independence that will benefit both a polluted area and their overall fitness and health.

“Seeing their faces as they look for their own bike and cycle away makes all the work worth it!”

R-evolution is a charity based in Cottingham and Trinity Market and offer secure storage, bike repairs and bikes for purchase from Monday to Friday 7.30am to 6pm, and Saturdays 8am to 5.30pm.

The charity also takes donations of unused bikes which are then refurbished and put back into the community through bike library schemes.

To keep up-to-date with the latest schemes and progress of the cycle lanes visit Hull Active Travel.

The MKM Stadium at night.