Haydon Wick Parish Council has teamed up with Old Town-based The Bike Shed for a second year to collect, refurbish and gift bicycles to local children.
Residents can donate bicycles at the Haydon Wick Parish Council Grounds Maintenance Facility on Old Blunsdon Road between Tuesday 24 November and Thursday 17 December.
Donations will be accepted on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 2.30pm and 3.30pm, with two additional Saturday sessions on 28 November and 12 December, from 9.30am to 11.30am.
Bicycles must be in reasonable condition and suitable for repair or servicing. Scooters, toys and other items cannot be accepted, and home collections are not available.
The initiative follows a successful campaign last year, when 22 bicycles were donated, refurbished and gifted to children across Swindon in time for Christmas.
The Bike Shed, which has run the scheme for several years, will assess and restore the donated bicycles before distributing them to families in need.
Councillor Leanne Stevenson, Vice Chair of the Community Development Committee, said:
“Last year, thanks to the generosity of local residents, we collected 22 bicycles. Every one was refurbished and gifted to a child in Swindon, helping make Christmas that little bit more special.
“We know there are bikes sitting unused in sheds and garages. This is a simple opportunity to give them a new home, reduce waste and bring some Christmas joy to local children.”
The scheme also aims to reduce waste and encourage children to enjoy cycling and outdoor activities.
Councillor Vinay Manro, Chairman of Haydon Wick Parish Council, said:
“Every bicycle deserves a second life, and every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy the freedom and excitement that comes with owning one.
“For some families, a bicycle can be a significant expense, particularly at Christmas. This scheme brings our community together to support local families, reduce waste and give children something they can enjoy long after Christmas Day.
“I encourage residents to support the scheme again this year and help make a real difference.”
Further information will be available through Haydon Wick Parish Council’s website and social media channels.
