Chorley and District rally support for bicycles to help Ukrainians

Launched last week, the On Yer Bike for Ukraine is aimed at collecting all types of bikes which can be donated at the 'Ukraine Unit' in Chorley.

The group, which is regularly visited by MP Sir Lindsay Hoyle and Mayor of Chorley Councillor Julia Berry, was formed to send relief supplies to war-torn Ukraine.

170 pallets worth of aid have been sent to Ukraine including pallets of nappies, toys, pet food, clothes and medical goods and toiletries.

Group co-ordinator and volunteer Stuart Clewlow said: "We have first hand accounts that enemy tanks in Ukraine are being used to crush appliances and equipment. Bicycles are especially being targeted, not only to take away a form of pleasure but also to take away a vital mode of transport!

"We now have a direct connection with a workshop in Eastern Europe that is operating flat out to repurpose bicycles and get them to where they are needed."

He added: "We will accept adult and child bicycles even if they are a little rusty, have flat tyres, broken breaks, and so on.

"Hopefully we can continue to make a difference."

The group has evolved to also help people from Ukraine who are now living locally.

You can find the Chorley and District Support for Ukraine group off Market Walk in Chorley town centre, in between Reel Cinema and the Calico Lounge.

The unit is open most Wednesdays from 2pm-4pm and Saturdays 10am-noon, but people are encouraged to check ahead before visiting.