Forres Rotary and Cycling Without Age Scotland are creating a timetable for the trishaw’s volunteer pilots

Passengers will be able to tour Forres by trishaw this summer.

Cycling Without Age Scotland’s (CWAS) Forres chapter currently has 12 volunteer pilots with six more to be approved, all looking forward to transporting pillion riders around the town.

Rotarian Jim McPherson confirmed the Rotary Club of Forres invested £8000 in the three-wheeler - similar to a rickshaw but with the passengers in front to offer free rides to less mobile people.

He said: “We’ll offer a variety of days and times for pilots and passengers - we hope to release a timetable within a week or two.

“We’ve assessed a few routes around Forres - anywhere that is not too steep is possible!”

Pilots do not need to be experienced cyclists as Forres Rotary supplies full training for use of the trishaw E-bike. Introductory sessions teach attendees the basic control features. Trainee pilots also learn how to help passengers - many of whom will be elderly - to get on and off safely.

Training graduates are issued with CWAS identity badges.

“The trishaw has the passengers at the front so the steering is heavy which needs practice to get used to ito,” said Jim. “The number of training sessions goes on until the trainee feels confident enough in their own ability.

“Eighteen pilots in the stable is a great number though we can always use more! There will be refreshers for existing or pending pilots ahead of the full tour service over the summer.”

Forres CWAS is holding a fundraising quiz in the Masonic Hall at 8pm on Saturday, February15.

“The topics will include film, TV, sport and general knowledge,” added Jim. “There will be cash prizes, plus others, as well as a raffle. I

“It will be a fun night in aid of a great cause.”

For more information, email Forres.Trishaw@gmail.com or call Jim on 07748 725593.