Wicked film bike built by Shipley's Ellis Briggs Cycles

Ellis Briggs Cycles has been part of Shipley's high street since 1936, manufacturing classic steel-framed bicycles.

Owner Paul Gibson has signed on to keep details confidential, but confirmed that his handiwork will appear in Wicked and its sequel, 2025's Wicked: For Good.

When designing the bike, Paul had to follow the director's “special requirements”.

Owner Paul Gibson working on a bike for another customer (Image: Mike Simmons) This will be the company's first foray into the world of film since its founding approximately 90 years ago.

“We're one of the few companies still making handmade bicycles,” Paul said.

Regarding director Jon M. Chu's request, Paul said: The director had some special requirements that had to be met.

Paul Gibson working in the workshop (Image: Mike Simmons) “This is the first time we've done anything for film production. We've built thousands of bikes, but most of them were used in racing competitions and on the Tour of Britain in 1952. It was for people who won big races like Ken Russell, who won.

“I'm interested in handmade bicycles.

“There's so much you can buy these days and we live in a world of fast fashion. What else can you buy that's made by artisans these days? We'll do our best to keep the heritage alive.

“I have always been proud of Yorkshire’s cycling heritage and we have always done our part to help riders over the years.”

Paul Gibson, photo (Image: Mike Simmons) The bike manufacturing process at Ellis Briggs Cycles is very long, with the bike frame alone taking about two to three weeks.

Ellis Briggs was originally one of two bicycle makers in the Shipley area.

“Every town had a bicycle manufacturer,” Paul said.

Paul took over the reins in 2016 after previous owners John and Paul Briggs retired after 30 years.

Behind the scenes at Ellis Briggs Cycles (Image: Newsquest) After their parents, Jack and Nora Briggs, retired in 1986, the Briggs brothers took over the business.

This business has been looked after by many other members of the Briggs ancestral line during Ellis Briggs' lifetime.

Paul is the first person outside of his family to run the store.

“I worked for my family until they retired,” Paul said. “They didn't have children, but I still wanted to live.”

He added: “The UK, and Bradford in particular, has a great tradition in film and television so it's great to be a part of that.” It’s something Bradford can be proud of.”