Pupils pedal off on new fleet of cycles

George from Pedals, PE teacher Wendy Chantrell and Ivel Valley School pupils with their new fleet of bicycles

Twelve all-terrain bikes - bought from cycle shop Pedals in the town - were delivered to Ivel Valley School on Monday, January 18, where teachers plan to use them to help students develop a range of skills.

Wendy Chantrell, PE teacher at Ivel Valley, said: “Some of our 15 and 16-year-olds recently completed a bike maintenance course as part of their Duke Of Edinburgh Bronze Award, and also learned to ride safely on local roads as part of their Bikeability cycle training.

“The training was such a success we wanted to extend it to as many of our pupils who are capable - and for that we needed to replace our old bikes with a new fleet.

Ivel Valley School pupils with their new cycles.

“Not only does cycle training give students good exercise and road awareness, but in some cases the skills they learn can allow them to travel around independently - making a huge difference to their lives.”

Les and George from Pedals, based in Shortmead Street, saw students try out the new bikes for the first time this week.

Les said: “We spoke to the school about what the pupils needed and made sure we provided a range of sizes, quick release seat clamps so saddle heights can be changed easily for the different pupils, plus mudguards and stands.

“Also, as part of the sale, we’ve agreed to service the bikes at regular intervals throughout the next year.”