Rochdale’s answer to Santa’s little helpers

Toby Werhun, volunteer, with some of the bikes that are being brought back to life

In a busy workshop in Rochdale, young offenders have been hard at work restoring bicycles to their former glories to bring smiles to the faces of children who will receive the repaired bikes this Christmas.

As the festive season draws closer, however, and wish lists have been written to Santa, the Youth Offending Team is looking for more old, unwanted bicycles to be donated from residents so they can be rejuvenated and given to vulnerable children this year.

Fixing broken chains, punctured wheels and touching up chipped paintwork are just some of the work the young helpers can do to turn someone’s trash into somebody else’s treasure.

Gayle Bradbury, Deputy Youth Offending Team (YOT) Manager, said: “We started this project last year and we really hope that residents will again come forward with their old bikes to be brought back to life.

“The young people really enjoy working on this project and it provides them with an opportunity to learn new skills, whilst transforming the bikes into wonderful gifts for children.”

Toby Werhun, a mechanic from the Re-Cycle Bike Project got involved with the YOT last year by volunteering his time to mentor the young offenders. He said: “Please donate your old bikes to us, it doesn’t matter how old they are, we can restore them back to good working order. We can then turn them around and give them to children and families who don’t have, or can’t afford a bike.”

After the Christmas rush, old bikes will still be welcomed as offenders can continue to restore them and present them to children. To donate a bicycle contact the YOT on 01706 925353.