R5K riders sign up to support critical bloodbiker deliveries
Determined R5K riders pile on the miles while helping others through a really tough 2020
‘A good reason to ride in your spare time’ #R5K MEMBER LEE PARSONS
It’s not been the year that any of us expected, but that hasn’t stopped #ride5000miles members from fighting the pandemic head-on by using their free time to help those in need. Already volunteering as an IAM Observer, Richard Bentham, from Bristol, stepped up during the first lockdown and began delivering supplies to shielding locals. He then signed up to the Freewheelers EVS Blood Bike group in April, before completing his first solo shift on June 22. With the stint beginning at 7pm and Richard remaining on call until 7am the following morning, he told MCN: “It’s really rewarding and I enjoy it. You’re riding a bike and people are genuinely pleased to see you. “I started in the summertime, when it’s lovely. I didn’t know how I was going to feel at the end of my first shifts, but it was really satisfying, and you feel like you’re making a difference.” Working as a car salesman by day, the 55-year-old does a Monday to Thursday block of volunteer nightshifts every six weeks. He’s now encouraging others to get involved and make a difference in the New Year, saying: “We’ve only got a certain amount of time here, so just get on and do it.”
Over in Saint Asaph, Wales, 31-year-old firefighter Lee Parsons has been doing his bit by riding in the Wrexham Group for Blood Bikes Wales. Volunteering for the last three years, Lee tries to ride at least once a week for the service, offering support to the NHS. “I’ve always just liked the idea of doing it,” Lee explained. “It’s a good reason to ride a bike in your spare time, while giving something back.
“I enjoy it. You get a lot of nods and waves while you’re riding along – especially now it’s becoming more widely known,” the Fazer 1000 rider added. “Any time I’m riding a bike, it just relaxes me and the fact that I’m out meeting people at the same time is just an added bonus.”
● If you’d like to get involved with Blood biking in 2021, visit www.bloodbikes.org.uk to find your local charity