An Inverness charity that brings the outdoors to those who need it most has received a very special gift to help its mission grow.
Spokes For Folks, a local volunteer group offering assisted bike rides to elderly people and those with limited mobility, has been awarded a £1,000 grant by the Asda Foundation.
The donation is part of a UK-wide celebration marking Asda’s 60th birthday, with more than £60,000 shared among community groups that help people feel connected and cared for.
With trained volunteers piloting specially adapted trikes, Spokes For Folks gives its passengers the chance to enjoy fresh air, conversation and the beauty of their surroundings.
For many, these journeys are more than a gentle ride through nature they are treasured moments of freedom and joy that help break the cycle of isolation.
The new funding will go towards a specially designed trike from Copenhagen, allowing the charity to reach even more people across the community.
This will be particularly helpful for care home residents who rarely get the chance to explore beyond their walls.
Spokes For Folks is already in high demand, supporting around 30 clients and groups with up to three rides a day, five days a week.
With the addition of a ninth trike, the team is eager to welcome new volunteers to join their mission and keep the rides going strong.
Kylie Omand, Asda Inverness Community and Customer Champion, was the one who nominated the group for the grant and recently joined them for a ride.
“It is such a heart-warming initiative and it’s amazing the places they manage to take people that they otherwise wouldn’t get to see,” said Kylie.
“I am over the moon that the application was successful and they’re able to purchase a new trike.”
Vonnie Stevenson, who helps lead fundraising and social media for Spokes For Folks, said the support could not have come at a better time.
“We are incredibly grateful to Asda Foundation for the funding that’s enabled us to add another trike to our fleet,” she said.
“The demand for our service is growing every day and this really makes a difference.”
Along with the grant, Asda Foundation also provided a thoughtful hamper for the charity’s volunteers, plus practical gifts such as waterproof robes, gloves, blankets and sun hats to keep passengers cosy and comfortable during their rides.
Every detail has been warmly received by a team that puts comfort and community at the heart of everything they do.
With every turn of the wheels, Spokes For Folks continues to brighten lives across the Highlands.
