A CYCLE shop which has been a familiar sight in the town for a quarter of a century is thriving in its brand new home.
Uttoxeter Cycle Centre is taking advantage of the booming popularity of cycling as both a hobby and a cheaper alternative transport.
It has moved from its previous home in Carter Street to new, bigger and better premises in Uttoxeter’s High Street.
Owner John Kucharik chose January to make the move as it is usually a quieter month but he has seen strong support from townsfolk since re-opening in the new shop just after New Year.
He told the Advertiser: “We have been looking for bigger premises for the last three or four years. We are moving to a busier end of town as it has become quite quiet where we were since the cattle market has gone and since JCB left town.
“There is a lot more room up here so we’ve got a full workshop facility and can stock more brands and a bigger range of bikes.
“Since we have opened we’ve had a lot of interest and a lot of passing trade which has been really good.” Cycling has seen somewhat of a renaissance in the last few years thanks to the success of the British track cycling team, personalities such as Mark Cavendish and in Uttoxeter particularly, it becoming home to a stage of the Tour of Britain.
The Olympics this year is also expected to give cycling shops a boost, but with the rising costs of fuel and as a way of keeping fit, cycling is becoming a popular alternative to the car.
Mr Kucharik said: “Cycling has become a bit more popular as a sport and more people are using it for commuting.
“A lot more families are going out cycling at the weekend as well.
“There are more places to take your bike out to. There are more trail centres and recreation grounds for cycling which is probably down to the growing popularity.
“Cycles are getting so much better now as well and cater better to all people’s needs.
“There is a bit more coverage of cycling events on TV at the moment and with the Olympics coming up there seems to be a lot more events included such as cross country mountain biking and BMX and that will all help us.”
Uttoxeter Cycle Centre’s new home can be found at the top of High Street opposite the library or can be contacted on 01889 567608.
