Two wheels are better than four, as the saying goes. And in Tendring, residents have been finding this out for themselves as free bikes have helped bring families together, improved mental wellbeing and provided a vital way of getting out and about.
Since June 2021, Essex Pedal Power has been giving out free new bikes to eligible residents in Clacton and Jaywick, and this summer launched in Harwich. These distinctive orange bikes can now be seen being ridden all over Tendring, as riders enjoy the benefits of keeping fit and enjoying the countryside. For some a new bike means a way to get active, for others it could be the only way they can get to work or visit family. But for one woman, getting an Essex Pedal Power bike transformed her life.
Raeanne Williams, 26, first heard about Essex Pedal Power Clacton and Jaywick through her work in the charity sector. After striking up conversation, Raeanne, who lives in Clacton, found she was eligible for a bike and shortly after receiving it, she noticed a huge difference in her life. In fact, she was so pleased with the difference it was made she applied for a job at the Colchester Essex Pedal Power in Greenstead, which opened this Summer, to become part of the project and help others like her.
Raeanne, project support officer at Essex Pedal Power Greenstead Colchester, said: “I am passionate about making positive changes to the world and when I received my Essex Pedal Power bike it transformed my life. My commute to work was quicker, I lost weight, mentally and physically I could notice a difference. My love for my job stems from the transformative power it holds and is proving to have with each participant. Witnessing the positive changes in people’s lives, both big and small, is incredibly gratifying.”
Read more here: https://www.activeessex.org/news/essex-pedal-power-pedalling-its-way-to-success/
