Motorcycle enthusiasts gathering at bike nights across the county have been keen to learn about the work of the Devon Freewheelers, signing up to volunteer.

The Devon Blood Bikes charity has been out in force over the summer months, displaying its vehicles at events, fetes and weekly bike nights in PlymouthPaigntonTeignmouth and Bideford.

And Devon Freewheelers volunteers in August were with the charity’s vehicles at Southleigh Country Fayre, Dawlish Carnival Blue Light Day and Honiton Charter Day, speaking to a steady stream of visitors interested in the service, and how it supports the NHS for free.

Russell Roe, Devon Freewheelers Deputy CEO, said the summer events were the perfect way to highlight the work of the charity, and explain how people can get involved.

Mr Roe said: “We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the public who have stopped by our display when we have been at community events, leaving a donation after they have spent time speaking to a Devon Freewheelers volunteer.

“They probably don’t realise the impact their donation of £1, or a few coppers, makes to keep the Devon Blood Bikes on the road – but it’s huge.

“The charity could not do what it does, providing a free service to the NHS, without that kindness and we are so grateful for that support.”

He added: “The bike nights are an enjoyable and relaxing way to meet up with supporters of the charity, and potential new volunteers.

“We regularly get people of all ages coming along to look at the bikes, speak to us, and find out ways they can get involved with Devon Freewheelers.

“They are always welcome sit on one of the Blood Bikes while chatting with our volunteers, finding out what it is they do.

“We have some other dates in our diary where we will be at bikes nights and community events over the rest of the summer, and into the autumn, and we look forward to meeting more people and explaining the role of the charity in Devon.”  

In the coming days and weeks Devon Freewheelers volunteers, and the charity’s vehicles, will be at the Greyhound Country Inn Bike Night (August 19), Tiverton Rotary Street Party (August 21), Sampford Peverell Historic Vehicle Gathering (August 22), Plymouth Bike Nights (August 26), Bideford Bike Night (August 26) and the Buffs at Beer (Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes) on August 28.

  • Photos show: Devon Freewheelers have been out and about this summer, showcasing the work of the charity.
  • The Devon Freewheelers volunteers were in Paignton for the English Riviera Bike Night.
  • Pictured here are some of the Devon Freewheelers volunteers at the English Riviera Bike Night.
  • The Devon Freewheelers volunteers at Southleigh Country Fayre.
  • Devon Freewheelers at Dawlish Carnival Blue Light Day, 2021.
  • Devon Freewheelers volunteers at Plymouth Bike Night.