THE physiotherapy team at Settle Health Centre has a new, £1,300 static bike to help patients with lower limb injuries and to regain cardio strength - thanks to the Friends of Airedale.

The centre treats about 90 new patients every month, most of who hae multiple sessions and rehabilitation in the gym.

Jonathan Northrop, team Leader for physiotherapy, said: “The bike will be used for patients who have had lower limb injuries and for our patients with osteoarthritis in their knees and hips. Anyone who has had an injury or accident to a lower limb will lose conditioning in it and the static bike will be useful to get both movement and strength back in their leg. We are very grateful to the Friends for their help.”

The new bike replaces one that was bought by the community 15 years ago, along with a treadmill and rowing machine, and which had needed replacing after constant use.

Eileen Proud, president of Friends of Airedale charity said: “It’s been a great pleasure to buy this bike for the health centre and for our patients. I quite enjoyed my sit on it and I think I could get used to getting fit on it.”

The Friends of Airedale charity has over 350 volunteers working alongside staff and last year the charity spent £225,000 on equipment and facilities to improve the experience of patients being cared for at the hospital.