DocBike charity motorcycle ride-out raises more than £10,000

DocBike held its ride-out in Dorset and raised more than £10,000 for the life-saving charity.

Despite challenging weather conditions on the day, more than 600 motorcyclists turned out in support.

Motorcyclists had three routes to choose from; riding the 35-mile route from West Bay Esplanade, the 30-mile route from The Churchill Arms in Alderholt, or the 40-mile route from Bridgwater Community Hospital.

All routes led to the finishing point at Henstridge Airfield on the Dorset and 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 displays, food, and music from DJ Paul Brady, along with finding out the winners of the grand raffle which had prizes donated by local businesses in Dorset.

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."

The ride-out took place on Sunday, September 24.

In addition to raising money, 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.

Dr Ian Mew added: "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.”