Active Cycles announced as a Green finalist in BBC Radio Lancashire Make a Difference Awards 2023

Active Cycles, a shop in Accrington Arndale that sells refurbished bikes saved from landfill, is in the running for the Green Award at this year’s BBC Radio Lancashire Make A Difference Awards.

The shop, which is managed by the Leyland based charity Active Lancashire, repairs bikes that have been donated by Lancashire Constabulary, Lancashire County Council and others before selling them at a low cost. Adult’s bikes cost £50 from the shop and children’s bikes are £25, or £10 if an old bike is brought in to the shop as an exchange.

Michelle Grimes, who leads on the project for Active Lancashire, said: “We are delighted to be nominated for a BBC award for our work, which is saving perfectly good bikes from just ending up at a tip. We keep our costs low as we want to help as many people in the local area access and use bikes to support their health as well as encourage active travel to reduce emissions, including those who otherwise may not be able to afford to buy one.”

Active Cycles are just one of many local heroes who have been making a difference in their communities that have been shortlisted as finalists in a community award scheme run by BBC Radio Lancashire.

Nominations by the public took place earlier this year, and winners will be announced at a ceremony at Chorley Town Hall in September.

BBC Radio Lancashire created the Make a Difference Awards to recognise remarkable people across the country; marking their achievements and contributions to their communities.

The eight categories range from great neighbours and inspirational fundraisers, to thoughtful volunteers and outstanding community groups.

BBC Radio Lancashire’s Breakfast Presenter, Graham Liver, said: “I’m so proud that we can recognise brilliant Lancastrians who really care about where they live.

“Projects like Active Cycles show that amazing things can be achieved when communities come together.

“Our finalists don’t do it for the recognition but I'm delighted that we can say thank you to these unsung heroes”.

Chris Burns, the BBC’s Controller of Local Audio Commissioning said: “A huge thank you to everyone who nominated someone, we have some amazing stories and are looking forward to celebrating our local heroes in September.”

To find out more about the awards visit: bbc.co.uk/makeadifference.