THE Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre have organised a week of activities that aim to celebrate accessible cycling and raise funds to support the charity's work across Cornwall.

Taking place from Monday, September 7 to Friday, September 11, Merlin Bike Week will convey the message that cycling should be accessible to everyone.

For people living with neurological conditions or disabilities, getting on a bike isn't always straightforward. Access to the right equipment, support and safe opportunities can make a significant difference, helping people experience the freedom, enjoyment, confidence and connection that cycling can bring.

Merlin Bike Week aims to highlight the importance of removing barriers to cycling and showing what can be possible when people are given the opportunity and support to find the right way to ride.

Throughout the week, the charity will be working with the Cornwall Bicycle Project to offer a range of activities, including opportunities to try adaptive bikes, learn bike maintenance skills and take part in an accessible group ride.

On Monday, September 7, from 1pm to 3pm, the Cornwall Bike Project will bring a range of adaptive bikes to Merlin Centre, near St Austell, giving people the opportunity to try different bikes in the centre car park and discover which options may work for them.

A professional bike mechanic will be at Merlin on Tuesday, September 8, from 9.30am to 12.30pm, offering free bike safety checks and basic repairs for members of the public.

Later the same day, the Cornwall Bike Project team will run a practical session covering basic bike maintenance and repairs, helping participants gain the confidence and skills to keep their bikes safe and roadworthy.

On Thursday, September 10, people who have trialled the adaptive bikes during the week will have the opportunity to join a guided accessible ride from the Merlin Centre, following a quiet local route from 10am to 12 noon.

All sessions are donation-led and places must be booked in advance.

Community events officer, Izzi Pope, said: “Cycling has so much to offer, but it's important that everyone who wishes to can experience it. Bike Week is about breaking down barriers, raising awareness of accessible cycling and showing that there are ways for people of different abilities to get involved.

“We're really excited to welcome people to the centre, try out the adaptive bikes, learn new skills and take on a challenge to support Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre.”

Alongside the week's activities, the charity is also encouraging people to take on a cycling challenge to raise vital funds.

Between September 7 to 13, participants can choose to ride 18, 100 or 252 miles, making the challenge accessible to cyclists with different levels of experience and ability.

Every pound raised will help support Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre and its work providing specialist neuro therapy, support and services to people living with neurological conditions and neurodiversities across Cornwall.

For workshop information and individual session sign-ups, visit the Merlin Bike Week Facebook event: www.facebook.com/events/945073451958035/

To take on the Merlin Bike Challenge and start fundraising, visit: pci.jotform.com/form/262162622431347?