A new charity premises in Plymouth will see the joining of cycling and cancer for the first time, as a local mechanic, Adam Froggatt, opens The Bike Network.
At 32 years old, Adam, who himself received a bowel cancer diagnosis in 2017, only two weeks after his first baby’s arrival, is keen to make the connection between cycling and cancer, to help those affected combat the effects on mental and physical wellbeing.
The founder of The Bike Network shared how his diagnosis and experience promoted him to pursue cycling. He said:
“After a colonoscopy, the doctor apologised and told me I had bowel cancer. My wife had to leave our two-week-old son at his grandparent’s and pick me up from the hospital. It was not the introduction to motherhood that she had planned.
“I know first-hand the physical and mental impact that cancer can have on you during and after treatment. I bought a bike during my chemotherapy treatment to help with my physical condition and never looked back.
“It is a recognised fact that eating well and keeping fit can improve the outcome of treatment. Cycling is an accessible way to get outdoors, do exercise at a low cost with a low risk of injury compared to other sports such as running.”
Having discovered cycling for himself, Adam was keen to share his experience and lend his support to others affected by the disease.
“In the lockdown of 2020, I studied for my bike mechanic qualification. As a former manager of the BMW garage, I had a grounding in mechanics. The Bike Network’s success is the only reason I gave up my job. I was finding there were not enough hours in the day.”
From humble beginnings of working on bikes at home and above his uncle’s shop, the success of his idea and sheer demand has pushed the founder to open his own premises.
Adam said:
“None of the events that have happened until now have been planned. I have done more after cancer than I have ever done before.”
“To date, I have delivered over 270 bikes to people affected by cancer. I have despatched one as far as Scotland. The idea with the premises is to continue doing my vital work of refurbishing and fitting people with bikes.
“However, I also offer bike servicing to help fund the charity’s work. We also sell parts, much of which are donations from the public and our supporters. Additionally, Macmillan Cancer Support provided a support grant to help me fund the premises.”
Speaking about the initiative, Di Charlton, engagement lead at Macmillan Cancer Support said:
“Adam’s efforts have been nothing short of incredible. The support that Adam has been able to provide for people affected by cancer’s physical wellbeing is invaluable.
“We are so pleased that Macmillan could show their support with a support grant and look forward to seeing where he goes next with his ideas.”
Adam added, the benefits stretched far beyond those of people affected by cancer.
He said:
“The Bike Network is also great for the environment because it is sustainable. If you are looking to buy a bike brand new there can be upwards of a nine-month waiting list now because of COVID. An estimated 15 million bikes are discarded every year throughout the world so we can help the planet whilst supporting those people affected by this awful disease.
“Servicing is cheaper at our HQ and every penny you spend with us goes back to supporting those in need.”
The new premises at Langage Business Park in Plympton were officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth Councillor Terri Beer on March 1.
To find out more or book your bike in for a service, click here, www.thebikenetwork.org
