‘Bib The Bike’ Brings Freedom Of Cycling To Dorset Care Home Residents

Fun and freedom-loving residents of a Dorset care home have begun touring their locality with a specially adapted trishaw.

‘Bib the Bike’ is proving a definite hit at Colten Care’s Newstone House in Sturminster Newton with passengers enjoying the fresh air and opportunity to go out and about.

The bike, pedalled by a suitably trained operator at the back, can carry two people in comfort.

Run by volunteers, it is part of a community health and wellbeing initiative led by the Blackmore Vale Surgery in the town’s Old Market Hill, a couple of minutes away from Newstone House.

By helping people to enjoy the local neighbourhood and nearby countryside, the aim is to improve mental health and stimulation and support those who may feel lonely if they are otherwise unable to be mobile in the community.

At Newstone House, the trishaw was brought into the gardens for an hour-long test run before starting the first of what are expected to be regular outings along the North Dorset Trailway.

Companionship Team Leader Karlene Horswill said: “It’s so nice to see Bib in action. The residents were absolutely fascinated and asked lots of questions about the bike and the prospect of going out on rides. They certainly enjoyed the first outing.”

Rita Clay said: “I was really nervous to try the bike, but I was made to feel so welcome and reassured. It was a lot of fun and I can’t believe how smooth the ride was. It was really enjoyable.”

Fellow resident Sylvia Livsey said: “Oh what fun! I can’t wait to enjoy more outings to the Dorset Trailway on the rickshaw.”