BIKE enthusiast Rob Hunt has donated six children’s bikes to help the Swindon Sky Rides reach new heights this summer.

The 34-year-old, from Wroughton, presented the bikes to sports coach William Melrose, who is teaching Swindon families how to cycle as part of the guided bike-ride scheme which runs each Sunday across the town.

Rob, a warehouse operative, said: “I just love giving broken bikes a new lease of life and seeing them go to good homes.

It’s such a simple pleasure, which I had as a child and still do today, and want others to enjoy too.”

William started running the Learn To Cycle sessions, held at the County Ground Athletics Track, as part of the Triactive Project, which encourages residents to be more active by teaching them to ride a bike, swim, walk and run.

He said: “Rob found out about the initiative on Facebook and got in touch.

I’m absolutely overwhelmed by his generosity and think it’s brilliant.

“The refurbished bikes are already being put to good use on the track and if youngsters don’t have a bike of their own they can keep the one they learn on and use it for playing out and also going on Sky Rides.”

Cycling counts as part of the 150 minutes of the recommended moderateintensity aerobic activity a week, and taking part in Sky Rides enables cyclists to get fitter while discovering hidden beauty spots in the town.

The Sky Rides rides, funded by the Sport England Tri-Active Project, are organised by Swindon Borough Council, in partnership with British Cycling and Sky.

Coun Mary Martin, the cabinet member responsible for leisure, said: “Rob’s generosity is extremely heart-warming and I would like to say a huge thank you for his kind donation.

“The Sky Ride initiative is really positive and I’m pleased that the rides are proving so popular in Swindon.

“If you haven’t participated yet, there are still plenty more to come so I would recommend booking on one of the rides and giving it a try.

“Anyone who is less sure on their bike and want some expert guidance is also welcome to join William with his learner sessions.”

So far more than 125 people have taken part in the Sky Rides, which started in May and are suitable for all ages and abilities with routes ranging from six to 30 miles.

There is still time to sign up to take part in a Sky Ride but places are limited.

Visit www.goskyride.com/swindon. Families, or adults, who want to learn how to cycle safely can find out more by calling 07487 643759 or emailing WMelrose2@swindon.gov.uk.