Our work Current projects ACT Now and reCycle reCycle is a scheme which takes donated bicycles, reconditions the bicycle to a safe and functioning standard, and then provides this bicycle for free to Mid Argyll residents who apply. The main aim of this scheme is to encourage people to cycle as part of their everyday short journeys. This scheme aims to support individuals and families and promote cycling to all ages and abilities. Download the application form here. Just a few of the many types of bicycles donated recently! reCycle has a few key features to ensure cycling becomes a way of life in Mid Argyll: Cycling Scotland’s ‘Essential Cycling Skills’, practical on road cycle training is provided with every bicycle to ensure the new user has the skills and knowledge to be safe and confident on their bicycle. This is open to individuals and families. The bicycle is fully checked/serviced by a qualified bicycle technician prior to supply. Following this, technical support is always available to upskill and empower the new cyclist, to maintain and repair their bicycle. Support is available to the bicycle user should they feel the bike does not fit their needs. We can assist with bike setup for comfort, advise on accessories to enhance the bike, or change the bike to something more suitable, for example. This scheme is based entirely on the need to reduce reliance on car use for short journeys and does not consider financial status. It is open to all Mid Argyll residents. In addition, this scheme saves bikes from going to landfill. Bikes in any condition are accepted and we can often make use of some part of the bicycle. All ACT Now project work on bicycles is undertaken or overseen by staff fully qualified to Gold Velotech Standard Project contact If you require any more information about this scheme contact ACT Now Project Officer, Jamie at [email protected] We are constantly looking for donations to meet the demand for bicycles. If you have a bicycle or bicycle parts you wish to donate, we would love to hear from you. In most instances we can collect from your home or place of work. Please contact Jamie ([email protected]) if you have any donations. Some of the many users of the reCycle scheme Feedback from scheme users: "The bike scheme is fantastic! It has enabled me to take up cycling, reduced my reliance on the car and public transport, and saved me a considerable amount of money as well....The scheme has afforded me the luxury of owning a bike, travelling virtually anywhere I please without the worry of damaging the environment." JO "Many thanks for providing a bike for my son. He managed to go for a bike ride just around our village despite stormy weather and he’s very happy with it…We are really grateful for your help. It was a nice experience dealing with you as you kept us updated about the bike being ready.” HW Other cycling services provided by ACT Now ACT Now is a Cycling Scotland Training centre offering Essential Cycling Skills Training to residents of North and Mid Argyll ECS is a practical course for anyone who wants to develop their confidence on a bicycle. This course can be tailored to your needs. There are four distinct modules, depending on your experience: 1. Absolute beginners This session is for people who have always wanted to cycle, but never had the chance. Our instructors will help you develop balance on two wheels before introducing pedalling. The module lasts roughly 1 hour. 2. Introduction to on-road This session is for anyone who enjoys cycling on paths but is nervous about going on road. Our instructors will introduce you to on-road cycling in a range of quiet locations and simple road layouts. The module lasts roughly 2.5 hours. 3. Advanced on-road This session is for people preparing to ride on busier roads. Our instructors will cover more complex junctions, route planning, and provide tips on roadside repairs. This module lasts roughly 2.5 hours. 4. Family This session is for families who wish to cycle together with more confidence – it is designed to provide parents/guardians with the skills and confidence to cycle together safely as a group and the whole family is encouraged to attend. The module lasts 2.5 hours and is tailored to meet the needs of the family. Carr Gomm Staff throughout Argyll and Bute have undertaken Essential Cycling Skills provided by ACT Now. ACT Now also provide community cycle repair and maintenance workshops. These workshops can be tailored to suit the needs of the audience though will always have an emphasis on community empowerment and self reliance. We can supply cycle technician equipment and tools for up to four participants at any time in an indoor or outdoor setting (with outdoor event shelters also supplied). All work undertaken by participants is advised, assisted and overseen by a Velotech Gold Standard Cycle Technician. Please contact for further information and prices. "Again, many many thanks for Saturday, it was such a great workshop you ran and as we said, about 20 bikes repaired. You guys are extremely professional" KR Craignish Village Hall.