All ability cycling service shortlisted for Welsh Charity Awards 2023

An all ability cycling service has been shortlisted for the Welsh Charity Awards 2023.

Cycling 4 All, the charity which runs Pedal Power in Alyn Waters Country Park, has been nominated in the Organisation of the Year category.

The charity helps individuals and organisations to enjoy the fun and therapy of cycling on a wide range of adapted bikes, trikes and side by side bikes.

This year a record number of nominations has been received and so being selected as a finalist by the judging panel is a big achievement.

This award will go to an outstanding organisation in Wales which has achieved a huge amount in the last year and is well respected and admired by others in the sector.

The winner of the WCVA Welsh Charity Awards 2023, Organisation of the Year, will be announced at the awards ceremony at The Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff on the 11 October 2023.

Throughout 2022 and into 2023, Cycling 4 All has continued its recovery from the challenges created by Covid, enabling clients to rebuild their fitness, reduce isolation experienced from extended shielding and regain confidence to enjoy exercise and therapy again in a group setting.

In the 12 months Cycling 4 All has also branched out into additional activities, recognising and responding to local needs by seeking charitable grants to deliver new projects.

This has included running a course for disadvantaged young people to gain confidence in cycling, learn about road safety, and learn bike maintenance skills by practicing on second- hand donated bikes which they were then able to keep for use in travelling to education or work.

A bike swap project has also been introduced in recognition that the cost-of-living crisis many families struggle to afford the next size bikes for their children.

Local families donate unwanted or outgrown bikes and exchange them for a larger model (if available).

This prevents usable bikes being taken to recycling centres or landfill and where possible the project gives free bikes to families who cannot afford one at all.

Helen Wright, Chair of Trustees for Cycling 4 All said: “We are very proud to have been nominated for this prestigious award at a time when maintaining good health and well-being are more important and challenging than ever.

“Cycling 4 All has developed in the last year to bring the benefits of cycling to a wider audience through innovative services like Bike Swap and Cycling Skills training.”