THE MP for Clwyd South made a socially distanced visit to one of Llangollen's newest businesses who have started trading following the lifting of lockdown restrictions.

During the visit to Drosi Bikes, Simon Baynes MP heard more about the founders' (Beth Ward and Robin Hughes) huge sense of pride in turning old, unwanted bikes into unique, functional and fun bikes, as well as their work on electric bikes.

This way, the bikes reduce waste and help everyone have a positive impact on the world and its environment. The business also provide a bike servicing and repairs service.

Drosi Bikes, whose name is a play on the Welsh word 'trosi' (to convert), initially opened on Monday May 17 this year following the success of their first project of the same name in Ruthin.

All the bikes that they refurbish are donated and they have started to hire out bikes to local residents in exchange for a donation in order to encourage active travel.

They also carry out e-bike conversions at a more affordable price – all customers have to do is supply the bike. An e-bike conversion from Drosi Bikes typically costs around £860 – considerably less than the market rate of a new e-bike.

Simon Baynes also met volunteer Steve Davies who, as a qualified cycle mechanic, helps with the bike recycling programme.

Drosi Bikes also works with volunteers who are looking to learn more about fixing bikes, which emphasises how the company is giving people new and skilled job opportunities in the local community.

Beth Ward, from Drosi Bikes, said: “Our sole purpose as a Social Enterprise is to improve the diversity in the cycling community and to offer people of all backgrounds an accessible and affordable solution to Climate Change. We've been overwhelmed by the support we've received so far and we hope that the Community Bike Workshop in Llangollen will be a place that inspires more people to choose to cycle and not drive."

Simon Baynes MP said: “The team at Drosi bikes are passionate and dedicated, and it was a pleasure to meet them in Llangollen. Their business idea is fantastic – converting old unwanted bikes into a range of new bicycles and it certainly has caught on given the steady increase in business that they are experiencing. Their shop is right in the centre of Llangollen next to the Museum and is a great addition to the town which already has a very strong tradition of outdoor activities and care for the environment. I am sure they will go from strength to strength!”