Norfolk Blood Bikes – “We’ll go no matter what”
by Margaret Broster
As darkness approached, early one October evening, a ‘Blood Bike’ and a support car based in the Norfolk region arrived at our venue.
For most of us the words ‘Blood Bikes’ had previously conjured up an image of a rider on a motorbike, always in a hurry, taking sachets of blood somewhere – probably to a hospital. Very quickly a truly informative talk and visual presentation dispelled that simple theory!
So….what is a Blood Bike? It’s a specialist motorcycle modified for use as a courier vehicle for the prompt transportation of urgent and emergency medical items.
‘Blood Bikes’ was founded in Surrey in 1962. ‘Blood Bikes’ is a registered charity and was given the late Queen’s award for voluntary service. The bikers, drivers, trustees, committee members and volunteers take no payment for their time. Many are retired or work part time, however a high percentage have full time jobs.
Blood Bikers proudly demonstrate their dedication: –
WHATEVER THE WEATHER
WE OPERATE 365 DAYS A YEAR
“Every night and during the day at weekends and Bank Holidays, Norfolk Blood Bikes transport blood, plasma, platelets, samples, vaccines, breast milk and other urgently required medical items to hospitals in Norfolk and surrounding areas. We also deliver blood to the East Anglian Air Ambulance which allows them to extend their life-saving capability.”
Wow, what an evening to remember and to appreciate the dedication of volunteers who turn out, frequently in adverse weather conditions, to help save lives in our communities.
‘Blood Bikes’ can be seen raising awareness and collecting money for their charity at many local and sponsored events. We thank them and hope that we shall never need their services but are reassured that they are always there every day of the year.
The motto of Blood Bikes is: “Riding To Save Lives”
After the presentation and plenty of questions from us we moved outdoors to look closely at the (very powerful) ‘Blood Bike’ and support car. We were privileged to get a close-up view of the vehicles and the equipment used for transportation of precious medical items.
For additional information, facts and amazing performance statistics please go to www.norfolkbloodbikes.org.uk