Residents across Torbay can now borrow sports and fitness equipment for free from their local library. Gear Up and Go allows library members to borrow a wide range of sports, games and fitness equipment using their library card. The collection includes tennis rackets, cricket sets, yoga mats and a range of other sports and activity equipment.
Funded by Torbay on the Move, the initiative aims to remove financial barriers to physical activity by giving people free access to equipment they can use with friends, family or on their own. Whether trying a new hobby, spending quality time outdoors, or simply looking for a fun way to keep active, Gear Up and Go offers something for all ages and abilities.
Councillor Hayley Tranter, Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services, Public Health, and Inequalities said: “Gear Up and Go is a fantastic addition to all Torbay’s libraries.
It gives residents of all ages and abilities free access to sports and fitness equipment. Cost should not prevent anyone from enjoying an active lifestyle. This scheme makes it easier to try something new, spend time outdoors, and have fun with friends and family.”
Beth Harris, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Libraries Unlimited, added: “Gear Up and Go aims to support anyone and everyone in getting active, for free, in their own way.
At Libraries Unlimited, community health and wellbeing is one of our core priorities as a charity. From blood pressure monitors to bike repairs, free yoga classes to wellbeing walks, our goal is to create regular opportunities and access to exercise and self-care. If you’ve been thinking about trying something new or want a fun activity to do with your family over the summer, pop into your local Torbay library and borrow some of our new sports equipment for free.”
The scheme is available now at all four Torbay libraries; Brixham, Churston, Paignton and Torquay. Anyone with a Libraries Unlimited library card can borrow equipment free of charge, and those who are not yet members can sign up for a library card for free here: Join the Library
For more information, visit your local Torbay library or explore what’s available through Libraries Unlimited.
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