Re-cycle - sending bikes to the needy

Contact: Sue or Merlin on 0845 458 0854 or visit www.re-cycle-east.org.

Re-cycle is a national charity based in Colchester which collects unwanted bikes and parts in Britain and sends them to less developed countries where cycling can replace long daily walks or disproportionate spending on transport. Many people in such countries walk up to four hours a day, collecting water or going to work, school, or distant fields.

Re-Cycle and its partners overseas teach people the skills to repair and maintain their bikes, to improve thier lives in a sustainable manner.

Re-Cycle, baed at Eastgates, near Colchester Rollerworld, needs local volunteers to help with fundraising, bike collection and shipment activities - even a few hours will do.

Volunteers strip down hundreds of bikes ready for shipping and are often helped by star supporters, like the comedian Alexei Sayle, although help with paperwork or even making the tea is much appreciated.

If you would like to help Re-Cycle, or find out how to donate your old bike, get in touch!