Swale: Bicycles sent to prison for recycling project

Many of the bicycles that are recycled come from waste recycling sites in Kent, where they would otherwise be thrown away.

The prisoners can work towards a City & Guilds qualification in bicycle mechanics, offered by the Canterbury Bike Project.

The council-run scheme has already seen 100 bikes refurbished and sold with the help of local charity Sheppey Matters and Faversham Town Council’s Community Bike Day.

Councilor Rich Lehmann, chairman of Swale’s environment and climate change committee, said: “We can continue to help prisoners in the scheme gain qualifications and provide our residents with cheap and environmentally friendly transport.

“The more people we can get cycling, the better. It keeps you active, provides opportunities for socializing and can save people money when they get around.”