Supporting bike donation project

Restoring donated bikes and gifting to children who may otherwise go without

Haydon Wick Parish Council (HWPC) supports The Bike Shed with Upcoming Bicycle Donation Window 💫

At this month’s Full Council meeting I proposed a motion that Haydon Wick Parish Council support The Bike Shed Christmas Bicycle Scheme for 2025. Matt Jones restores donated children’s bicycles and gives them away free to children who may otherwise go without. The proposal was supported by Cllr Vinay Manro and approved unanimously.

I brought this forward because many families across Swindon are facing a difficult Christmas, and a refurbished bicycle can make a real difference to a child who might not otherwise have the chance to own one. When a bike is outgrown or simply out of reach financially, opportunities can slip away. A donated, refurbished bike gives that freedom back, helping children build confidence, coordination and independence while also supporting our local climate aims by reducing waste and avoiding the carbon cost of a new one.

HWPC will provide a dedicated drop-off window for used children’s bicycles. Dates and arrangements will be confirmed soon on all HWPC social media outlets. A limited number of home collections will be available for residents who meet specific criteria.

The Bike Shed deserves full recognition for the work they do. Matt carries out the repairs, checks and preparation that make every donated bicycle safe and ready for a new home. HWPC is helping to widen the reach of this project by making it easier for residents to take part.

Residents who wish to donate sooner, or who live outside Haydon Wick, can take bicycles directly to The bike shed. Old Town. at Morris House, Albert Street, Old Town, or contact the team on 07736 834867.

Watch out for the Haydon Wick Council donation window so you can drop off a children’s bike and help make a difference this Christmas.