Bike repair shops in Scarborough and Filey flooded with calls as residents eager to exercise and avoid public transport

Bike repair shops in Scarborough and Filey are being flooded with calls because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Soar in demandSoar in demand
Soar in demand

Scores of key workers wanting to avoid using public transport to get to work and others trying to make the most of their one outdoor exercise session a day are getting their bikes fit and ready to ride.

Roy Simpson, owner of Bike It Cycle Warehouse in Victoria Road in Scarborough, said: “I’m stacked up. I’ve got bikes coming out of my ears.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“It’s as if it’s the middle of summer, it’s like our peak season at the moment. It’s definitely keeping me busy.

“Everyone is digging their bike out of the garage because they want to get out and get some fresh air.”

Richard Hay, owner of Bikeabout Filey in Union Street in Filey, said he has had both key workers and recreational cyclists getting in touch.

“The uptake has been absolutely massive,” he said. “I’ve seen scores more people biking around.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Like Mr Simpson, he is also finding that many people have been asking him to look at bikes which had been stashed away for some time in sheds or garages.

His shop is shut to passing trade but he is offering a mobile repair and servicing operation.

He can collect bikes and return them, ensuring they are disinfected. The shop can also deliver essential cycling clothing and accessories.

Bicycle shops were exempted from the retail outlets ordered to close by the Government last month alongside other shops deemed essential such as supermarkets, banks and pharmacies.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Mr Hay said he has helped carers, nurses, teachers and police officers to travel to work without having to use public transport.

“I can see there’s a need for people - particularly key workers - who need to get about,” he said.

Related topics: