Cyclists are being asked to recycle their old bikes to help people living in Africa.

The St Albans branch of Halfords will be collecting unwanted bikes between July 11 and 16, to help provide affordable transport for African communities.

The scheme is being run with charity Re-Cycle, and aims to collect 6,000 bikes across the six days.

Halford’s CEO Matt Davies said: "This is a great opportunity for customers to get rid of those bikes which are not being used and give to a great cause and get money off a brand new bike at the same time if they want to.

"Our partnership with Re-Cycle will mean these unwanted bikes will provide an opportunity which will result in people in Africa being able to transform their lives in a sustainable way. We feel that this is an exciting way to make a difference by doing something that is closely linked with our business."

Merlin Matthews, the founder of Re-Cycle, added: "We are really excited about the partnership with Halfords. It will provide long term opportunities to raise awareness of the great ways people here can very easily assist those in need in Africa."

Anyone who donates an old bike will be offered a 10 per cent discount on a new replacement.