Newark Cycles' act of kindness gets wheels turning for visually impaired cyclist

A visually impaired cyclist who feared she would never be able to ride again is back on two wheels, thanks to a business' act of kindness.

Jeanette Stevens, an keen cyclist, lost her eyesight aged 34 ­— but was brought to tears of joy when Newark Cycles' kindness allowed her to get back on a bike of her own.

Jeanette began cycling again years after she lost her sight, with the help of Charlotte Tandems which loaned her a tandem for a year, after teaching her how to ride one.

When the year was up the bike had to be returned ­— but one of the charity's old tandems was up for sale, although not in a usable condition.

Jeanette said: "The charity was selling the tandem for £50, so I had a word about it with Newark Cycles.

"I wasn't sure if I should buy it as my budget is tight, but Simon (of Newark Cycles) said I should get it, and if it couldn't be done up they would sell it on to get my £50 back."

She bought the bike and took it to the shop, where Simon, his wife Kathryn, and Jack, said they could repair the bike and would do it as a gift.

"I was running around, bouncing and overjoyed telling everyone about it," Jeanette added.
A short time later the bike was ready, having had new tyres, chain cogs, handlebar stems and brake and gear cables fitted.

Paul Davidson, Jeanette's tandem partner and friend, said: "Its like a new bike. It was really special for her.

"She had tears in her eyes and not just because of the bike, but because of the kindness they had shown.

"Netty was very worried she would never be able to cycle again."

Having her own tandem, Jeanette explained, allowed her the freedom of cycling whenever she wanted, without fear she would have to return the bike.

"It's going to be mine, and I can go out whenever I like. I will have it forever," she said.

"I have had lots of hurdles and discrimination in my life, so when something nice happens its just wonderful.

"I don't think they'll ever realise what they've done for me, and what it means to me."