Families across East Lancashire who are struggling to afford Christmas this year are being encouraged to “upcycle a cycle”.

Blackburn-based social enterprise group, Newground, is running a series of workshops where parents and grandparents can learn how to upcycle a bicycle and take it home for free.

The workshops are open to those who are over 18-years-of age and are currently unemployed.

Supported by Active Lancashire and the European Social Fund, the workshops will take place on Tuesday December 17, 10-11:30am at Hodge House Community Centre, Regent Street, Nelson; Wednesday December 18 from 10-12pm at Shadsworth Hub, Rothesay Road, Blackburn; Thursday December 19 from 10-12pm at Stubbylee Annexe, Bacup; and Friday December 20 from 10-12pm at Offshoots, Towneley Park, Burnley.

Newground’s Active Spaces Officer, James Kenyon, said: “Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but for many families it can be very stressful too.

"Many parents will be frantically trying to find and afford all the latest gadgets.

“Luckily a bike is a staple Christmas gift that never goes out of style.

"The whole family can enjoy cycling together or parents can enjoy teaching their child how to ride a bike.

"A bike is a gift that keeps on giving.

“By attending these workshops not only will you take home a free bike but you’ll leave with the skills to be able to maintain your child’s bike yourself, avoiding costly repairs in future.

"And what could be a more personal gift than something you have restored yourself?"

For more information on how to book your spot visit togetherhousingdigital.co.uk/form/6cFubhOq/iJfYnCbtW/bike-workshop-sign-up-