It's Happy Days after big £50k cash boost

Happy Days Cycles was one of five projects in Yorkshire to be shortlisted in a competition run by The Big Lottery Fund in partnership with ITV.

The three with the most public votes received grants and the money will be a big boost for the social enterprise.

Charity founder, Dave Fawcett, said “We’re thrilled to have won this funding, which will help our newly opened cycle shop and cafe in Sowerby Bridge become more sustainable.

“They provide both new and reconditioned cycles, cycle clothing and accessories. Profits from the shop and cafe go back into the main HappyDays charity which supports the homeless and vulnerable in Calderdale.

“I’d like to say a massive thanks to everyone who voted and made this happen for us as this will make a huge difference for our charity.”

Happy Days Cycles in Sowerby Bridge opened on February 20, 2016, and is one of three social enterprise companies working hard to make the HappyDays charity sustainable in the future.

It provides training in cycle maintenance for people who are at risk of, or who have experienced, homelessness.

This means they will be able to refurbish pre-owned bikes, offer bike rides and hold pop-up shops offering affordable and well maintained bikes for Calderdale.

It’s hoped this will boost employment prospects for homeless people and encourage more people to take up cycling, improving their physical and mental health as well as providing social opportunities.

The vision of HappyDays is to see homelessness reduced and vulnerable people empowered to live independent and purposeful lives.

Its mission is to promote community living which incorporates ongoing mentoring and support, bringing about sustainable change for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.