Revolve certified bicycle stores across Scotland are calling for donations of bikes, to ensure they can continue to support key workers during lockdown. The stores have adapted operations during the coronavirus pandemic, adopting measures such as physical distancing, while still supplying those on the front line with much needed bikes to transport them to and from work.

Awarded by Zero Waste Scotland, the Revolve certification is Scotland’s guarantee for pre-loved items and gives shoppers the confidence that they will receive quality products and excellent customer service. All donated bikes are fully refurbished to meet Revolve standards.

Bike for Good in Glasgow has reopened its South Hub, and is keen to receive donations of bikes so the team can continue to support key workers. All bikes are being loaned to key workers during this time, and they can keep them for as long as needed.

Anna Bochsler, 25, lives in Govanhill and is a support worker for adults with disabilities. Anna said: “The bike has been amazing! I had a lot of anxiety around getting the bus to work in case I picked up the virus and spread it within work, so using the bike has completely removed that.

“I've never cycled in a city before and I was really apprehensive about the traffic and the road rules. However, due the roads being quieter, this has proved the perfect time to gain some confidence cycling around the city.”

Another key worker who has benefited from the service is Chi Hoi Lee. Chi Hoi Lee, 24, from Glasgow, is working as a Junior Doctor. Chi said: “I am very thankful for the bike loan; it makes my commute a lot easier and faster.”

“This service has been very helpful. I received speedy responses and Bike for Good have answered any questions that I have had. They have made commuting to work much easier for myself.”

Kimberley White, communications lead at Bike for Good, said: "Bike for Good are now opening their doors on limited Saturdays for bike sales, as the demand is through the roof. However, we are running out of bikes to sell!

“At the moment we are only looking for bike donations that are in fairly good condition and are especially seeking hybrid bike donations.”

Recyke-a-bike in Stirling is currently operating a collection service for donations of bikes from the surrounding area, allowing them to continue repairing and giving new life to pre-loved bicycles before passing them on to those who need them most.

Angela Barron, chief executive, Recyke-a-bike said: “We have a lot of demand from key workers looking for adult bikes, and our supply is rapidly dwindling. We have been able to access some recycling centres, but demand is far outstripping supply, so we have launched a donation drive.”

Each year in Scotland thousands of items which could have been reused end up in landfill needlessly. Revolve stores ensure valuable resources can be reused – extending their life, supporting local communities and protecting the environment.

Miriam Adcock, project manager, Zero Waste Scotland, said: “Although many Revolve stores across Scotland remain closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, some of our organisations, such as Bike for Good and Recyke-a-bike have reopened with a limited service, allowing them to support key workers.

“The Revolve quality kitemark guarantees that any bikes supplied are of the highest quality, which is so important when ensuring that key workers can get to work safely. We would urge anyone with a bike they no longer use to consider donating it a specialist Revolve store such as Recyke-a-bike or Bike for Good.”

To find out if your local Revolve bike shop is open just now and accepting donations visit www.bikes.revolvereuse.com