Borough Council helps iconic firm make its first electric bike

Prince William and Greg James (Credit: EBC)

An iconic company that has been celebrated for 80 years as the Rolls-Royce of bicycle makers is to debut its first ELECTRIC powered two-wheeler – thanks to help from Erewash Borough Council.

Mercian Cycles – which produces hand-crafted custom-built bikes – successfully applied for a £20,000 research and development grant from the authority to add battery assistance to one of its top models.

The high-tech electric version of the local company’s Ventura Allroad will be launched shortly – barely two years after the legendary firm almost went out of business.

James Knowles, who was one of four local businessmen who stepped in to save it, said: “We’re incredibly grateful for the council’s support through this grant. As a hand-built bespoke bicycle company with over 80 years of heritage, this funding is helping us develop an exciting new electric bike while continuing to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.”

One of its machines – a specially-made tandem – was seen by millions of BBC TV viewers two months ago as Greg James rode it for Comic Relief. Prince William was among VIPs who joined him on the bike during a 1,100km (683-mile) pedal marathon. The epic ride raised a colossal total of more than £4.5million.

The two-seater – nicknamed Tando Norris – was constructed by frame builder Tim Leicester at the Mercian Cycles factory on Little Eaton’s Duffield Road Industrial Estate.

Tim beamed proudly: “We were happy to be involved.”

A fresh round of council R&D grants to boost local businesses and create jobs has just been launched. The authority previously got Government money for the scheme but this has now dried up.

Cllr Curtis Howard, Erewash’s lead member for business and regeneration, said funding for the new grants – which are worth up to £10,000 each – is coming from £6.5million the council has earmarked for boosting the borough.

The pot of cash, called the Erewash Investment Fund, will also herald wide-ranging improvements to town centres, parks, playgrounds and markets – while supporting community initiatives.

Cllr Howard said: “Helping to create jobs by backing local businesses is a vital part of our mission. Mercian Cycles is a superb example of what can be achieved by combining innovation with fantastic workmanship.”

He urged more firms to apply for the R&D grants. Information about them can be found on the council’s website here: Research and Development Grant | Erewash Borough Council.