TWO pioneering businesses are aiming to help the environment and charities with a new bike recycling scheme.

Clarkston-based removal company Dumpit, and Shawlands' Corner Bikes have joined forces to offer free bikes to local charities in the Southside and East Renfrewshire.

The Rebyke recycling scheme urges locals to donate their unwanted bikes instead of discarding them.

Staff from the two businesses will then give the donated items to charities and community groups in the area, saving them from landfill and helping others at the same time.

Corner Bikes will act as a collection point for anyone donating their unwanted bikes, and Dumpit staff have offered to store them until they can be distributed.

Rory Friel, owner of Dumpit, said: “In our line of work we come across a number of unwanted, re-usable goods, and where possible try to recycle and donate to charitable organisations.

"Unfortunately, with the volume of bikes increasing it’s difficult to manage and seems such a waste, especially at this time of the year.

"Launching Rebyke is a no-brainer.

"Not only are we diverting bikes from the waste stream, we’re also giving local people, of all ages, a free bike which is great for keeping fit and saving money.”

Stephen Steele, owner of Corner Bikes said: “I’m pleased to have partnered with Rory and the team at Dumpit and hope local charities and community groups take full advantage of the scheme.

"People often drop unwanted bikes at the shop, and as Rory mentioned there is only so many you can give away.

"With the scheme we would call upon local charities and community groups to place the unwanted bikes with owners who will make full use of the recycled bikes."

Langside SNP councillor Anna Richardson said: “This is a wonderful idea and I hope the project is a success in both areas.

"I’ve no doubt there are a number of people who would love their own bike and I would encourage community and youth groups to get in-touch with Stephen or Rory.”

Provost Alastair Carmichael added: “The bike recycling scheme is a terrific initiative and I’m delighted Rory and Stephen have joined forces to deliver free bikes for local people in need.”

If any readers are interested in the scheme or are able to donate a bike they should bring it to Corner Bikes at 169 Deanston Drive, Shawlands.

Charities and community groups can also get in touch with the businesses if they are interested in benefitting from the scheme.