AN avid cyclist who wants to encourage others to pick up the hobby has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award for his work at a shop that helps make cycling accessible to all.
Jake Land has worked at Cycle Penistone CIC since 2016 – and says he loves all things bikes.
The shop helps break the financial barrier to rent out bikes that residents and visitors alike and Jake’s job is to fix them up and make sure they’re good to go.
“I love it here,” said Jake, 21, from Dodworth. “I have been here since I was 16 and I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.
“I have always had a love for bikes so being able to share it with other people is really great.
“We had a lot of demand for bikes during lockdown and we’ve been rushed off our feet but I don’t mind. It can be very expensive to buy a bike so I am happy we are here to bridge that gap so that people can get out into nature without it costing a lot of money.
“I know during lockdown, mostly all of the bikes were sold out so I was working hard to make sure all the bikes were repaired for anyone who wanted to rent one.
“As far as I am aware, we are the only shop around here that rents bikes, and we are right next to the Trans Pennine Trail which is perfect.”
Jake has been commended for his friendly attitude, and customer service skills and has earned a nomination in the Love Where You Live category.
“I am shocked really,” he added. “I wasn’t expecting this but I love what I do.
“I want to encourage lots of people to cycle because it’s better for the environment and it’s good fun.”
