KEEN cyclists at Trafford Wheelers all ability cycling club have been having a wheel of a time trying out their brand new ‘trandem’ bike.


The club was able to buy the trandem – a three wheeled tandem with the main stability located at the front and the brake at the back – thanks to a £3,079 Gannet Grant.


Gannet is Messenger’s parent company and hands out regional grants every year to worthwhile causes in the community.


Simply Cycling runs Trafford Wheelers and Wythenshawe Wheelers, which hold bi-weekly cycling sessions for people with physical, learning and sensory disabilities, autistic spectrum disorders and mental health requirements.


Sue Blaylock, manager of Simply Cycling, said: “We have had the trandem for three weeks now and it has been a great addition to our fleet of all ability bikes.
 

“It has been extremely well used and even this morning teachers from a local special school used it to take children with special needs around the track enabling them to cycle together alongside their friends.


“One of the main beneficiaries so far has been Gary, who suffers from severe epilepsy, and who can now cycle together with his carer and remain in full view of him or her at all times.”


• All are welcome to attend Simply Cycling sessions at both Longford and Wythenshawe Park. Sessions cost £2 and participants can stay as long as they like. Visit simply-cycling.org for more information.


• The Gannet Grant application process will recommence in the autumn.