Children with disabilities in the North East are benefiting from refurbished bikes thanks to a community initiative supported by Tyne Tunnels operator, TT2 Limited.

Twenty refurbished bicycles have been donated to students at the Percy Hedley Foundation’s Percy Hedley School and Northern Counties School in Newcastle through the Recirculate project, which gives unused bikes a second life.

The bikes were refurbished by The Oswin Project in partnership with prisoners at HMP Northumberland. Each one was fully serviced and certified road safe by a qualified bike mechanic before being delivered to the schools.

The donation is already having a positive impact, enabling more pupils to take part in cycling activities that support their wellbeing, physical development and social interaction. TT2 is working with Recirculate throughout 2026 to provide refurbished bikes to local communities, using its strong relationships with regional charities and organisations to ensure they reach those who will benefit most.

John Preston, Chief Executive of the Percy Hedley Foundation, said: “Physical activity forms a key part of what we offer, and our students have already been making great use of the bikes. They’ve been especially popular at our Bike Club, where learners enjoy riding together at lunchtime as a fun, social activity.

“Community support like this really matters. It helps us continue to give the people we support more opportunities to build confidence, independence and enjoy experiences with their peers.”

As well as supporting young people, the Recirculate project also delivers environmental and social benefits by reducing waste and supporting rehabilitation through skills development.

Adrian Wallace, Chief Executive of TT2, said: “Supporting our communities is a key part of what we do at TT2. By combining sustainability with practical community benefit, this initiative is helping more young people access the physical and social benefits of cycling, regardless of their background or circumstances.”

Fiona Sample MBE, Chief Executive of the Oswin Project, added: “We are in the business of transformation. In partnership with Recirculate, HMP Northumberland and TT2, bikes are transformed, as are the lives of those who receive them and those who refurbish them.

“By gaining qualifications and experience, prisoners can move towards employment on release – helping to reduce reoffending and create safer communities.”

Recirculate was co-founded by Infrared Capital Partners, one of the investors behind TT2, alongside Equans UK & Ireland and Vercity.

This initiative forms part of TT2’s wider Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) programme, which supports local communities through partnerships with organisations including St Oswald’s Hospice, St John Ambulance, Greggs Foundation, Tiny Lives Trust and Red Sky Foundation.

Through its Community Fund, TT2 supports more than 40 charities each year, with employees also playing an active role through volunteering across the region.