A SOCIAL enterprise which helps vulnerable people back into work by teaching them how to fix and maintain bikes has celebrated its fifth anniversary.

Bike Stop, in Darlington organised a range of activities including the team cycling the Coast to Coast on a static bike in the shop and a free prize draw.

The Northern Echo’s Group Editor, Andy Richardson, joined the team at their Skinnergate shop and repair centre to select winners for the draw. Prizes included a range of vouchers and bike accessories including the star prize which was a Dawes Galaxy Tour bike kindly donated by Modus.

Rob Archer, retail manager of Bike Stop, said: “Bike Stop has come so far in such a short amount of time. From improving Darlington’s environmental footprint through recycling and upcycling bikes and the parts to offering engaging opportunities in engineering.

“We look forward to welcoming more bicycle donations in the future and continuing to support our volunteers and charitable founders First Stop.”

Since the specialist shop’s creation by renowned charity First Stop in 2012, the team have revamped more than 3,000 bicycles, ranging from 1930s one to 21st century models.

The Social Enterprise in Skinnergate, lives by the motto of ‘we’re more than just a bike shop’ and take pride in offering voluntary opportunities in upcycling, recycling and servicing bikes.

More than 15 volunteers have come through the doors and the team are hoping to recruit apprentices in the near future.

If you’re looking for a bike or would like to donate one or your bike needs a service, visit Bike Stop at 31 Skinnergate, Darlington, County Durham, DL3 7NR or call 01325 788857.

For more information you can visit the website at http://bikestop.org.uk/