Published date 15 June 2021

Mayor to paddle power the recovery

Two paddle boarders

A growing Bath business is set to receive a cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority led by the Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The funding will help “Wild Swim Bike Run” to create more new jobs.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris visited "Wild Swim Bike Run" yesterday (14 June) to discover more about their guided tours with a difference. Not only do they provide walking tours to see the city’s historic sights, but also bike tours, and even tours aboard a stand up paddle board. They also have an outdoor equipment store stocking cycling, paddle boarding, kayak, open water swimming and wild camping equipment.

Aboard a paddle board Metro Mayor Dan Norris found out all about the local company from Darroch Davidson, the Managing Director. He heard how they have taken on a 20-year-old trainee mechanic and two new young workers through the Kickstart scheme.

Now thanks to the West of England grant they have ambitions to set up a cycle mechanic training centre creating more local jobs.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: "This is a company with big plans for the future. Darroch has a military background and clearly has the drive and determination to succeed. I’m really excited by his plans to expand the business together with his commitment to work with other local businesses to provide opportunities to young people and support the local community with charity fundraising events."

Darroch Davidson said: "Bath has untapped potential. Its unique setting between the Cotswolds, Mendips and Wiltshire Downs – with direct access to one of the longest cycle paths in the country along the Kennet and Avon Canal – means it is well positioned to capitalise on the outdoor activities market. Our vision is to transform Bath into one of the leading outdoor activities destinations in the country and the grant we have received could be the master key that unlocks the potential of our business."

To find out more about business growth grants and the other support available to SMEs, visit the West of England Growth Hub website.

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