Barnardo's

Barnardo's New Forest Bike Ride On the 21st of May, when most of the club was 'basking in the sunshine' on the Isle of Wight a brave band of four motorcyclists remained on the mainland, facing all that the elements could throw at us, in order to help Barnardo's with their New Forest Bike Ride. Let me first set your minds at rest, we weren't actually cycling. We each rode a section of the course on our motorbikes keeping an eye on the cyclists, to offer aid if necessary, and to ensure that they didn't obstruct the roads for other road users. The weather was not good, and we were all in our waterproofs before we started. Generally we only suffered light rain (a.k.a. 'Sea Mist'!), but the weather varied so much in a small area that two of us encountered heavy rain and hailstones! The ride started and finished at Ferny Crofts, a Scout centre near Beaulieu, the cyclists having covered 25 or 40 miles according to the route they had chosen to take. There were a couple of accidents to which ambulances were called, but otherwise all seemed to go well. We covered between 450 and 500 miles between us, quite a lot for a 25 mile course, but necessary to give adequate cover. The day was enjoyed by all, and the 667 cyclists raised approximately £25,000 between them. The highest amount raised by an individual was a staggering £750, more than the highest amount raised by a team. Many thanks from me and Barnardo's to my helpers on the day: Paul Healey SDMCC Chris Robinson New Forest Wheelers Alan Bond a friend who keeps saying he must get round to joining SDMCC, but hasn't quite made it yet. If anyone would like give up a day of their time to support this worthy cause next year, keep an eye on the club magazine, I'll ask for the date to be printed as soon as it is confirmed.
Andy Gilbert