CYCLISTS in the Vale of Evesham are being invited to donate their old bikes to good causes.

A recycling company in Toddington is joining forces with a community interest business in Malvern to send bikes to Africa. Bricycles will endeavour to put the donated bikes to good use in the UK, however surplus bikes will be taken to Africa on the next tyre recycling consignment. Tanya Trotman from Bricycles - a business partner - is to coordinate the delivery and collection of bikes appropriate for Africa.

She said: “In Britain, millions of bikes are thrown away or lie unused in sheds, whilst many people in Africa have no access to transport of any kind. People spend hours each day walking to collect water, firewood or to access health care, school and employment. A bicycle lightens this burden and dramatically improves their wellbeing as well as work and education opportunities helping to bring social change. A bicycle cuts travel time to a fraction and can carry passengers and heavy loads. Bikes give families the extra time to earn, learn and enjoy life.”

For information on how to donate a bicycle contact Nick or Brian at Bricycles in Malvern on 07866677720 or 01684 577238. They have a couple of drop off points near Evesham and are also able to collect in some areas.