Bike hire scheme for disabled

EIGHT new bicycles which are adapted for use by those with a disability are now being provided from Omagh Leisure Complex as part of a new Exclusive Bike Hire scheme which has just been launched.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has purchased the new bikes and trikes through funding from the Department for Communities via Sport Northern Ireland. It is aimed at supporting the Disability Sports Hub project.

Coach-led programmes are provided to help people with disabilities to try out the bikes and trikes.

Once the training is complete, participants can then hire them by booking the equipment at least 48 hours before they are required.

Welcoming the scheme, chairman of the council, Chris Smyth, said improving the facilities and amenities for disabled people is one of his priorities for his term in office.

“Working with the activists for inclusion locally has given me an understanding of how difficult it can be for them and this bike and trike hire scheme is aimed at helping to address that,” he said.

“It is important that we get people active with the associated benefits for physical and mental health.

“This is a way for people with disability issues to get out and do those things which perhaps others take for granted.

“Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to ensuring that its leisure facilities and programmes are fully inclusive and this is a wonderful opportunity for people to make the most of this specialised equipment.”

Further information can be obtained by contacting Billie-Jo Irwin on 0300 303 1777 or on
fermanaghomagh.com