Article written by Watford Cycle Hub...
Watford Cycle Hub (WCH), a pillar of the local community for 13 years, is excited to announce that it will officially join the Watford & Three Rivers Trust (W3RT) family, effective 27 April 2026.
This transition secures the long-term future of the cycle hub, ensuring its mission to provide affordable cycling, expert repairs, and community-led rides continues to thrive under the umbrella of one of the region’s leading charitable organisations.
Since its inception, Watford Cycle Hub has operated as a not-for-profit multi-purpose centre, becoming a "hidden gem" in West Watford. From its sell-out children’s "learn-to-ride" courses to its partnership with British Cycling and the life-changing Cycling Without Age trishaw rides, the Hub has been instrumental in making cycling accessible to all, regardless of age or income.
By joining W3RT, the cycle hub will benefit from the scale, operational expertise, and synergies of a larger organisation, allowing the team to focus on what they do best: keeping the community moving.
It’s important to note that the Watford Cycle Hub’s success would not have been possible without the enormous support of both Watford Community Housing Trust and Watford Borough Council, who have provided financial, collaborative, promotional and operational support throughout.
To ensure a seamless transition, WCH founders Kate Jenkins and Fiona Timme will remain integral to the operation. They will work closely with the W3RT team during the handover and continue to support the Hub on a part-time basis long-term, preserving the institutional knowledge and "community-first" ethos that customers have come to love.
Kate Jenkins and Fiona Timme, founders of Watford Cycle Hub said: "Watford Cycle Hub has always been about more than just bikes; it’s about connection, accessibility, and community spirit. From our free Breeze rides to seeing the joy on a child’s face when they first learn to ride, we’ve cherished every moment of the last 13 years. Joining W3RT ensures that this legacy is protected and nurtured. We are particularly excited that this expansion allows us to create new local jobs in our workshop and café, further deepening our roots here in West Watford."
The partnership promises several exciting developments for 2026 and beyond:
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Growing the Team: Plans are already in motion to recruit more mechanics, cycle trainers, and operational staff. This growth will allow the cycle hub to significantly expand its popular training programmes for both children and adults, while also increasing capacity in the workshop for repairs and servicing.
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Enhanced Café Experience: Following its surge in popularity with local families and "Mumfluencers", the on-site café will expand its menu to offer a wider selection of fresh food and drinks.
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E-bike Expertise: Recognising the shift in the market, the cycle hub will widen its maintenance services to include specialist support for the growing e-bike community.
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Family Cycling: There will be an increased focus on providing equipment and advice for families visiting the Ebury Way and the on-site "mini-town".
"We are absolutely delighted to welcome Watford Cycle Hub into the Trust," said Saffron Johnson, CEO Watford & Three Rivers Trust. "The Hub is a vital community asset. By combining our resources and growing the team of trainers and mechanics, we can ensure it remains operationally fit for the future while maintaining the high standard of service and heart that Kate and Fiona have built over the last 13 years."
The Hub will continue its vital work as a donation centre for used bikes. Workshop staff will continue to refurbish donated cycles during quieter periods, providing high-quality, reconditioned bikes at accessible prices for the residents of West Watford and beyond.
See links to the job descriptions and how to apply here: https://watfordcyclehub.org.uk/news/new-job-vacancies-at-watford-cycle-hub/
