A group that helps young people with special educational needs (SEN) develop their skills in bike mechanics and cycling has won £10,000.

Bespoke Be Heard, championed by deputy head of the Clarendon School Paul Jenson, triumphed at Richmond’s Den on Wednesday, July 17.

His encourages young people to take second hand bikes, repair them and then sell them, with 100 per cent of the money raised from the sale reinvested back into the young people.

Mr Jensen said: “By supporting Bespoke Be Heard, Richmond Council and all the dragons have reassured our team that the young people who take part in the unique training are receiving a quality and inspiring service.

“We will seize this opportunity with both hands to make Bespoke Be Heard into everything it can be; giving young people with SEN a voice in the wider community.”

The winner was decided by Zac Goldsmith at an awards evening hosted by St Mary’s University.

Richmond’s Den, which started in 2012, aims to enable individuals, groups and organisations to take the next step in moving their social or environmental business ideas forward.

Councillor Pamela Fleming, cabinet member for business thanked the competition’s sponsors, which included Wholefoods Market, RFU, Veolia, BAA Heathrow, Richmond Housing Partnership and Best of Richmond.

She said: “It was really tough to decide on a winner for Richmond’s Den 2013, we had a number of great entries and all the finalists deserved recognition for their fantastic ideas.

“Congratulations to Bespoke Be Heard for winning.

“Their proposal for cycle mechanic training for young people with SEN came through as innovative, achievable and destined to enhance the local community.”

 

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