Published: October 2, 2023 | Updated: 1st October 2023
More than 600 motorcyclists attended DocBike’s annual charity ride-out, raising over £10,000 for the life-saving charity.
The riders persevered in some challenging weather conditions, either riding the either riding the 35-mile route from West Bay Esplanade in Bridport, the 30-mile route from The Churchill Arms in Alderholt, or the 40-mile route from Bridgwater Community Hospital, to the finishing point at Henstridge Airfield which is situated on the Dorset/Somerset border.
Dorset riders Dr Ian Mew and Critical Care Paramedic Mark Williams led separate convoys through Dorset’s country roads, while Sussex Regional Lead John Allsopp, led Bridgwater’s convoy through Somerset’s country roads.
After completing their chosen route, motorcyclists received a warm welcome from crowds at Henstridge Airfield, where they were able to enjoy exhibitors, food and music from DJ Paul Brady, along with finding out the winners of the grand raffle with prizes donated by local businesses in Dorset.
The event also provided DocBike and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance with the opportunity to engage with motorcyclists to raise awareness of their life-saving work and how bikers can upskill their ride, along with sharing how to keep other injured motorcyclists alive until the emergency services arrive by attending a free BikerDown course.
Speaking of the success of this year’s event, Dr Ian Mew, Co-Founder and Trustee of DocBike said: “We’re blown away by the support received at this year’s ride out.
“The DocBike charity receives no funding from the Government and relies on the generosity of the public to continue our lifesaving work, so we’re thrilled to have raised such a fantastic amount which will help towards our ever-growing operational costs.
“Whilst this event helps to raise much-needed funds for the charity, the support we receive from the motorcycling community for our work to reduce motorcycle collisions and providing life-saving critical care to anyone who needs it (not just motorcyclists), means so much more.
“We’re incredibly grateful to every person and organisation for their continued support.
“We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part, to our wonderful team of volunteers and marshals, exhibitors and caterers, businesses and individuals who donated incredible raffle prizes, the High Sheriff of Somerset and High Sheriff of Dorset, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, Dorset Freemasons, West Bay Snack Shack and Will Badman Photography for helping to make the day such a success.
“Finally, special thanks go to Henstridge Airfield clubhouse and owner Geoff Jarvis, The Churchill Arms in Alderholt, Bridgwater Community Hospital, West Bay Harbour Master, Bridport Town Council and Dorset Council, for hosting the start and finish points of the event.”
