An independent bike shop has opened a new store in Ashford, filling an “obvious gap in the market”.

ACTiV Cycles - which has been established in Folkestone for more than 30 years - opened its doors on the Henwood Industrial Estate at the beginning of March.

The shop supplies mountain bikes, road bikes, and e-cycles, as well as cycling gear and servicing supplies.

It is the second outlet for the independent business.

Owner Ian Lloyd says Ashford was the “obvious choice” for expansion.

“There is definitely a gap in the market here; there are no independent cycle shops other than us, whereas Maidstone for example has three,” he explained.

“On top of that, the town has a number of fantastic cycle paths, and it is perfect for anyone who likes either road cycling or off-roading.

“I’m more of a road cyclist myself and there are so many fantastic places to go in Ashford, especially north up to Challock or Charing.”

This is the latest piece of cycling-related news to come to Ashford, after bike manufacturer Brompton announced plans to move its global headquarters to the town.

One of the UK’s largest cycle companies, Brompton has earmarked wetland along the Avenue Jacques Faucheux dual carriageway, close to Asda, for a multi-million pound factory.

Mr Lloyd, who lives in the Leeds area between Maidstone and Ashford, says cycling businesses had seen a surge in business during and after the pandemic.

“During lockdown, everyone had more time to go cycling – and now, with increasing fuel costs and the fact that everyone is more environmentally conscious, I’m seeing more people use bikes for sure,” he said.

The 57-year-old says he is “very happy” with how his team has been received since opening on March 1.

“It’s always a case of establishing yourself and getting that customer base,” he added.

“We’ve been doing that and people have been coming in to buy bikes – it’s been a great start.”

ACTiV is open from Tuesday to Saturday between 9am to 5.30pm.