Bikes wanted for refugees

Do you have a spare bicycle taking up space in your garden shed? Has your garage become a storage room for two-wheeled vehicles? You can now get those spare bikes out, free up space and help others in the process.
 

The Welcome Wheels community bike ride during Refugee Week. Photo: submitted

 
The North Norfolk Group of Amnesty International is supporting the Welcome Wheels project, which provides bicycles for refugees and asylum seekers in Norfolk.
 
Amnesty organiser Joolz Saunders said: “Bicycles are so valuable, allowing refugees to give essential access to work, college, school, English classes and to meet others. They provide a small but important degree of personal independence.
 
“And apart from the practical issues, the gift of a bike shows that refugees are welcome within the community.”
 
The project is supported by Bicycle Links, which will ensure the bicycles are in good working order before being handed over to refugees. Road safety training will also be provided.
 
Amnesty International has arranged several locations in Norfolk where donors can bring their bikes – for both adults and children – as well as any unwanted panniers, lights or hi-vis wear.
 
The bicycles need to be in reasonable condition but they will be made fully roadworthy.
 
They can be taken to 12 Reepham Road, Foulsham NR20 5SL (tel: 01362 683633) from 14–16 July, 10 am – 1 pm.
 
They can also be donated at the Quaker Meeting House, 43 Church Street, Wells- next-the-Sea NR23 1HZ (tel: 01328 711085) from 11–13 July, 10 am – 1 pm.
 

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