Fortrose and Rosemarkie get Billy Whizz trike transport service
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A NEW community trike service bringing Black Isle villagers the freedom of the road has been named after a fleet-footed Beano character.
‘Billy Whizz’, a trishaw capable of transporting less mobile people around local attractions, is beginning service in Fortrose and Rosemarkie.
The comic book hero was a boy who could run extraordinarily fast, although organisers hope to leave less chaos in their wake than the cartoon character did.
During lockdown last year, Black Isle Men’s Shed (BIMS) came up with the idea of raising £18,000 to purchase two of the semi-electric, three-wheeled pedal vehicles for local residents.
The service, with 20 riders trained for the task, will be managed by the Fortrose and Rosemarkie Chapter of Cycling Without Age Scotland. Fundraising is continuing to buy a second trishaw.
Steve Bramwell, chairman of BIMS, said: “It’s really about reducing social isolation for elderly, immobile folks.
“We know they feel empowered by having the option to go out for safe, comfy rides to beauty spots, cafés and other places. They have so much to contribute to the community.”
