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The Jacksons department store building will be buzzing again later this month when it is taken over by a new DIY bicycle workshop and Reading Repair Cafe.

Reading Bicycle Kitchen will be holding its opening celebrations in the iconic building on Saturday, June 14.

The regular Repair Cafe event, where anything from bikes to computers can be repaired, is moving in for a session on Sunday, June 15.

The building on Jackson's Corner has been empty since the 138-year-old family retailer closed down on Christmas Eve last year.

Secondary school teacher Dave Sage, founder of Reading Bicycle Kitchen, said: "The building is perfect for us. "We're looking for a workshop environment with plenty of space for people to learn how to fix their bikes at a convenient location.

"We couldn't have asked for more."

Reading Bicycle Kitchen recently received a £29,000 grant from Reading Borough Council to help set up a not for profit community interest company (CIC).

It will offer a low-cost way for Reading cyclists to keep their bikes in good condition.

Volunteer mechanics will give help and advice and work stands and tools will be available for use.

The scheme will also enable people with no or low wages to build a bike from scratch using donated parts which will then be theirs to keep.

Co-founder Rachel Miller said: "Without our fantastic volunteers we'd have no chance of being ready.

"If any of your readers would like to help out they'd be very welcome to sign up at readingbicyclekitchen.org/volunteer."

Councillor Tony Page, Reading's lead councillor for transport, said: "Encouraging more people to consider cycling as an option is central to the council's wider Local Sustainable Transport Fund scheme and I wish the organiser's the best of luck in their new venture."

Reading Biciycle Kitchen's opening celebrations will take place between 10am and 4pm on Saturday, June 14 and it will then be open Thursdays, 6pm - 9pm and Saturdays, 10am - 4pm for drop-in bike maintenance sessions.

Reading Repair Cafe will be able to help with repairs to a wide range of items including bicycles, computers, electronics, tool sharpening and clothing repairs between midday and 4.30pm on Sunday, June 15.

Repairs and cakes are free but visitors are encouraged to make a donation.