A fundraising campaign has been launched to bring Trishaws to Wells.

The initiative is being spearheaded by the Wells Community Network (WCN), who are hoping to raise £7,000 to get the project off the ground.

Back in March, a couple of Trishaws were brought to Wells from Weymouth by a team of volunteers from the seaside town's Cycling Without Age group, so that people in the city could see them and have a go.

The Trishaw service will be a bookable bike ride which would allow older people and those with disabilities the chance to feel the wind in their hair, and the ability to safely experience the local area and nature close-up from a slow ride on a bicycle, as well as giving them an opportunity to tell stories and reminisce with a fully qualified pilot. The trishaws are steered by cyclists, with help up hills from a small rechargeable battery-powered motor, at no more than 10mph.

The inspiration comes from Cycling Without Age, a movement started 10 years ago in Denmark which has now spread worldwide. By December 2021 there were more than 2,700 places with well over 3,700 trishaws around the world offering Cycling Without Age – and the numbers are growing. There are also more than 35,000 trained pilots who assist with these rides.

"Our vision is to give the opportunity for people who are isolated or have mobility problems to remain an active part of society and the local community," said WCN's Nicki Hall who is leading the project.

"And provide a chance to enjoy sharing their story in the environment where they have lived their lives. In doing so we will help to build bridges between generations and reinforce trust, respect and the social glue in our society."

Half the money has already been raised, and there will be more fundraising initiatives taking place later in the year. Donations can also be made via this GoFundMe page.