Yeovil College students get healthy with bike loan scheme

Students at Yeovil College have joined a Bike Loan Scheme in order to become more healthy and independent.

The scheme is run by Somerset County Council's Moving Forward team and has allowed seven Yeovil College and UCY students to rent brand new bikes for one academic year.

A spokesperson for the College said: "The aim of the scheme is to help young people access Further Education healthily, sustainably and independently."

Successful applicants have to pay a deposit of £75 for the bike plus a fee to use it for the year, at the end they can either return the bike and get the £75 back or keep it.

Yeovil College GCSE student Henry O'Connor (16) of Stoke Sub Hamdon said: "I like the way you can effectively hire a bike for the year then buy it at the end.  

"I mountain bike as a hobby, so having this bike means I don't  have to worry about leaving my more expensive bike while I'm in lessons."  

"I would recommend it, especially if you're into cycling."

Student Services Co-Ordinator Derren Butler said "This scheme is a great way for students to be able to access college easily and cheaply, especially if they're only travelling between 1 and 5 miles.  

"Cycling offers students a flexible approach and the chance to develop more independence.  This scheme is a great benefit to all the learners concerned."

The scheme is open to all students aged between 16 and 19 years old, living in Somerset and attending a full-time course in the county.  

For information about joining next year's Bike Loan Scheme visit www.movingsomersetforward.co.uk/bike-loan.