Halfords is collecting unwanted bikes for an initiative aimed at providing affordable transport for communities in Africa.

The motoring and bike retailer is looking for people to donate their old and unwanted cycles to its Hendon branch, in The Hyde, for its partnership with charity Re-Cycle.

Customers can drop off their bikes at any branch between Thursday July 11, and Tuesday July 16, and the chain hopes to collect 6,000 bikes nationwide.

Models in most demand are mountain bikes for teenagers and adults, but all bikes in a reasonable condition, including children's bikes, will be accepted provided they are complete with no cracks in the frame and with less than 25 per cent rust.

Re-Cycle has sent more than 45,000 bikes as well as parts and tools to 16 different countries in Africa, where bikes can be difficult to find and expensive.