A TRIO of Swindon entrepreneurs have pedalled their way from the world of business to bikes with the opening of their new cycling coffee shop this week.

@ The Hub, in Fleet Street, opened its doors this week offering fair-trade drinks, a cycle shop for youngsters and adults and a bike repair clinic.

Co-owners Chris Jones, Kerry Richards and Steve John, all 43, first met in 2002 when they were working as operations analysts at consultancy CSC.

All three had an interest in cycling and wanted to be able to cycle to work.

When they were made redundant last year they decided to take the brave step from the corporate to cycling world. They saw a gap in the market for a business which would provide refreshments and bike repairs under one roof.

Chris, of Pinehurst, said: “I’d always enjoyed cycling and watching it on the television.

“The interest in cycling in Britain has really grown since the Olympics and everyone is getting on their bikes, so it made sense to offer something for the cycling community. There aren’t any cycle shops in the town centre and cycle route 45 comes out just round the corner.”

The trio took over the Fleet Street property in December, with renovations completing last week.

Kerry, who lives in the town centre, said of the name: “We wanted something that will show this is a place for everyone to hang out, be relaxed, comfortable, where you can watch the Tour De France if you want.

“We also wanted the name to incorporate our IT background, which is why it has an @ sign in it.”

The shop, which has the slogan ‘Give it some beans’, encourages people to get back in the saddle and make the most of the cycle routes the town has to offer.

And the three have gone all out to provide the best service possible, with Kerry mastering the perfect espresso and the two men completing Level 2 City and Guild qualifications in bike maintenance.

Steve said: “The response so far has been great. We invited family and friends round who would be the most honest and they honestly said it was great.

“We’ve already had people in asking to have a look at their bikes.”

Follow the firm on Twitter, @thehubswindon.