A social enterprise is teaching students to repair and care for bikes as well as helping charites.
Stockport-based CERA Cycloan was set up five years ago by directors Brian and Christine Pendlebury.
The business also supports charities, with St Ann’s Hospice the latest organisation to receive a donation from its online sales.
Brian’s father George, from Cheadle, was cared for by the charity and his death aged 79 in 2009 gave the couple the idea.
Brian said: “My mum Margaret was lonely and isolated and didn’t know what to do so we decided to loan bikes to over 65s for free.
“It means they can enjoy physical and social activity with like-minded people and we organise leisurely family bike rides for all ages on Saturday mornings.”
Each day six students from schools and local authorities learn mechanical and business skills while refurbishing donated bikes in the Higher Hillgate workshop.
Another six helpers work in the art and design workshop where items such as lamps, clocks and handbags are made for sale online.
Brian added: “We’re an alternative education provider and the bikes are a way of changing behaviour. A lot of our students go on to become car mechanics, apprentices or undertake further education.
“The refurbished bikes are sold online, or donated to job seekers or apprentices. Rather than pay commission to an online sales site we decided to donate that percentage to charity.”
The company has two teams taking part in Cycling Sportive in aid of the Seashell Trust on September 15.
