Biking it in and around Bradford

The project was started in Halifax and now has a new workshop in Bradford

A cycling group in Bradford is trying to encourage more people to get on their bikes.

It's part of a project run by Crank It Up, and their aim is to recycle old parts and bikes which are then sold to people on low incomes.

It's hoped that will encourage more people to take up cycling in the area.

It's run by volunteers and is proving to be very successful.

Chris Evans is behind the project. He says the new workshop at the Bradford Resources Centre in Chapel Street Bradford is one of two in the area. The first has been opened in Halifax.

He says the idea came to him at a refuse site, where he saw over a dozen bikes being thrown out. A keen cycle enthusiast himself, he decided to set up the project with a little help from his friends.

The team are hoping to encourage more people to take up cycling

He explains: "The project started last year and since then we have been finding it very hard to keep up with the demand.

"We are a group of volunteers who all have full-time jobs, but are passionate about the project."

Recycle cycles

Chris says he and his team are passionate about the two-wheelers as a means of transport because they reduce carbon footprints, are more economical and promote healthy living.

He says: "To date we have saved 300 bikes from being melted down and demand is on the rise, we can't seem to keep up."

Chris adds he and his team do not receive guaranteed government funding which limits them with their future plans, but is still not letting that deter him.

He says: "We are still hoping to open in other areas and hopefully soon we will branch out in other parts of West Yorkshire.

You can find out more about the project by visiting their website. Just click here