A CARER in Weymouth is planning to launch a bicycle fixing workshop to help those in need, inspired by his terminally ill mother.

Tom Johnson, 21, is looking to establish regular bike workshops, which will teach those who attend about bike care whilst also providing a relaxed environment for them to socialise.

He was inspired to come up with his idea after spending time caring for his mother, Deborah, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer last year.

He himself has struggled with ADHD since childhood and is keen to provide support for those in need in the area.

Tom said: “I decided to turn that negative energy into something extremely positive. 

“I want mum to feel proud and think she has done a good job.

“I am just trying to make the world a better place.”

“I want to give people something to focus their minds on and build something from nothing to help support anyone who needs it.”

Tom is planning to run three or four workshops each week, with people from different community groups.

Sessions will focus on different elements of bike care, such as remedying punctures and chain repair.

His workshops will support people with a variety of needs, including carers, cancer patients, autism support groups and others.

He has reached out to a number of groups already, including Cancer Research UK, Wessex Autism Society and the South Dorset Prostate Cancer Support Group.

Tom said that too many of the support opportunities on offer in the area are about “talking and biscuits” rather than “activity-based” environments.

He said: “People won’t just be there to listen and learn. It will also be sociable. 

“I want people to get together in group activities and try to understand each other’s problems.”

Tom is hoping that he can raise enough money and gain enough support to begin running sessions next year.

As part of his fundraising drive, he is attempting to organise a long distance bike ride.

He said: “People want to see determination if they are going to support something.

“I have received a great response from the community. I am actually now receiving donations.”

“I have got my foot in the door and it is kicking off."

To support Tom’s fundraising campaign, visit gofundme.com/2d8upss.