Bike chains in trouble

Ludlow-based Islabikes - specialising in lightweight bikes for kids - has been followed by international suppliers Wiggle/Chain Reaction into closure. Islabikes say "After nearly 18 years, we will cease the sale and production of bikes, once remaining stocks are sold."

"So sad to see Islabikes calling it a day after 18 years. And hot on heels of sad news that international bike specialists Wiggle/Chain Reaction are shutting down too. On top of losing our local bike repairman in Church Stretton last year as well” says South Shropshire parliamentary candidate and keen cyclist Chris Naylor.

"Losing Islabikes - though they’re continuing to trade and run down their stock - is a blow not just to the families who love their bikes, but also to the local Ludlow economy. It’ll mean fewer jobs locally, less spend in local shops, less work for local delivery drivers. But South Shropshire is full of young entrepreneurs, and cyclists - even cycling entrepreneurs! - so let's hope there’s some way Islabikes can be reborn.”

“Meanwhile we have to wonder about the bigger picture. Inevitably the Conservative Government’s switch to a pro-car policy - further endangering the planet by delaying the move away from fossil fuels - must mean a slow down in the switch to bikes. Perhaps that’s what’s behind these troubles in the bike industry, large and small.’