Cycling group gets local wardens ready to pedal this summer

East Renfrewshire Council's Community Safety Officers are back on their bikes ready to cover more ground this summer thanks to a helping hand from a local cycling group.

The Barrhead Melo Velo group is a service set up by service users at the Barrhead Centre, a day centre for adults with additional support needs. The group is a unique cycle and repair project staffed by adults who attend the centre and was only too happy to lend a hand to the wardens.

The Council’s Community Safety Service provides a visible and uniformed reassuring patrol presence to cover the community and support residents and local businesses – and with their bikes back in top condition the team is raring to go.

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Councillor Colm Merrick, Convener for Community Services and Community Safety, said: “It is terrific the Barrhead Melo Velo group could give the wardens’ bikes the service they required before our officers got back on their saddles this summer.

“This is another example of the great service provided by Barrhead Melo Velo. As a result of the group’s hard work the wardens will now be able to spend more time patrolling the parks and other rural spots in East Renfrewshire, which in turn will allow people to enjoy our outdoor spaces while feeling safe”.

Aiming to ensure a safer and cleaner East Renfrewshire for all to enjoy, the Community Safety service responds to a variety of anti-social behaviour issues, as well as dealing with noise complaints, litter, dog fouling and carrying out the role of a parking attendant.

The Barrhead Centre Melo Velo team have received training so that, under supervision, they can fit tyres, repair punctures, service bikes and run a safety check for a small fee.

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They also sell used and reconditioned cycles and new and used parts as well as hiring bikes to the public for use.

Thousands of bikes have been restored and offered for re-sale, with many being donated to charities. All work is carried out to a high standard being overseen and checked by a member of staff trained with a Velotech qualification at Platinum level.