An Ambleside based youth charity has launched an appeal for 24 new bikes for their Hinning House residential centre in the Duddon Valley – in the south west corner of the Lakes.
If successful Brathay Trust estimate it will give 2,880 children a cycling experience in the next three years. So far £1,568.00 of a £6,072.00 target has been raised.
As Brathay’s Chris Jeffs, Deputy Head of Centre, explained: “Biking in the spectacular Duddon Valley is one of the most popular activities on offer to our young visitors. Sadly our bikes have seen better days so we are hoping people will respond to our appeal and kick-start some wheelie great adventures.
“Riding a bike is a life skill, contributes to physical fitness and increases children’s independence. Among any group of children there will be one or two who aren’t confident cyclists or have never ridden a bike before. We also have visits from specialist schools for children with behavioural problems or learning disabilities and youngsters who need help with healthier lifestyles.
“We offer them encouragement, support with the technique and the chance to practice on flat, quiet roads and tracks in this beautiful valley. It increases independence in children, inspires confidence and can give those who come to Hinning House believing they can’t ride a bike a real sense of achievement when they find out they can” said Chris.
Anyone inspired to make a donation can do so here buy a bike appeal.
