Stolen bikes are being given to schoolchildren as part of a council initiative to get more young people into cycling.

The ReCycle scheme, which is supported by the Metropolitan Police, sees unclaimed, confiscated bikes donated to schools throughout Brent.

As well as receiving the recently-serviced bikes, the schools will benefit from hi-vis vests, helmets and skills lessons to promote safety on the roads.

Cllr Shama Tatler, responsible for transport at Brent Council, said: “Children are being encouraged to get more active and cycle to and from school but some, through no fault of their own, don't have access to a bicycle and are missing out.

“This new initiative is a fantastic opportunity for fun and exercise, whilst encouraging more sustainable forms of travelling and making use of bikes that would have otherwise been destroyed.”

The scheme is the first of its kind in the capital, and the council believes it could be unprecedented nationally.

Newman Catholic College, in Harlesden Road, is the first school to take part in the project and head teacher Daniel Coyle said he was “delighted” to be involved.

“We're confident that our young people will become fitter, happier and more successful students as a result of their participation in this exciting initiative,” he said.

As well as the bikes donated by the police, anyone can put an old one forward to help support the scheme.

Email Gerardo.Guercio@cyclinginstructor.com to get involved.