Bicycle repair workshop proves a success in Tullamore

St Mary's Youth & Community Centre in Tullamore was the venue for a recent free bicycle repair workshop that was held as part of National Climate Week.

The event was hosted through a collaboration of the Offaly Climate & Biodiversity Action Group and Tullamore Tidy Towns.

The attendees, with bicycles in tow, were shown how to carry out simple maintenance. Bob Byrne (from Edenderry) facilitated the workshop by providing tools and cleaning supplies while imparting his knowledge to the attendees.

People learned about aspects of general bike servicing such as cleaning, chain lubrication, tightening of fixtures, and then more complex tasks such as adjusting derailleurs and handlebars.

Learning such skills promotes sustainability and self-sufficiency among locals who cycle often, as either their primary mode of transport or as an enjoyable hobby, said Helena Brady from Offaly Climate & Biodiversity Action Group.

Helena said that the event “was very helpful to get some advice on how to maintain my bicycle”.

“I use it regularly so it's always good to be able to do a few odd jobs myself that crop up every now and again,” she said.

“It's a bygone era where people were often able to fix and mend everyday items, and the workshop represented an opportunity for both young people and adults to learn and apply these valuable skills,” Helena added.