Andy’s Hospice Motorbike Run
Now in its 19th year, the popular event is once again being held to raise vital funds for children and young people with life-limiting illnesses.
In previous years, scores of bikers have taken to the roads for the run, which is taking place on Sunday, September 1.
Hospice representative ZaZa Warren said: “This popular event has gone from strength to strength over the years, with about 300 bikers taking part each time. “It really is a fantastic experience. Even just seeing the bikes lined up at the start is a thrill. “This year’s run will be the 15th, and it is all thanks to the support of bikers from Lincolnshire and beyond that, it has been such a success for so long. “Those taking part are guaranteed to have a great ride and a great day out. There will also be the opportunity to win some super raffle prizes, and all this comes with the satisfaction of knowing that participants are helping make each day count for local families whose children have life-limiting illnesses.”
To date, the event has raised more than £40,000 for Andy’s, which is Lincolnshire’s only children’s hospice. It provides free care for children from birth and young people up to the age of 25 with any progressive life-limiting illness from state-of-the-art premises in Grimsby.
ZaZa continued: “We are a home from home. Families and friends can come and go as they please, bring pets, order takeaways… here at Andy’s Children’s Hospice, it’s all about the patient. “They come from the whole of Lincolnshire, and mainly use Andy’s for respite care, either for a day or an in-patient stay. This not only helps the youngster but also family and/or carers too. “There are no set visiting hours, pets are very welcome, parents and carers may phone at any time and also stay overnight. Basically, there’s no set routine… our patients are encouraged to be as independent as possible, and they tell us how they want to be cared for. “Our services don’t stop there. Home Liaison provides support and advice at home, and we offer complementary therapies. Family Support Workers offer support for families on emotional and social care issues, and there’s a monthly carers’ support group. A Registered Sick Children’s Nurse is available for parents and carers too. Counseling can take place at Andy’s and at home, and our chaplain is on hand for spiritual support. It really is a home from home.”
The 19th Annual Motorbike Run starts from 11.00am at Willingham Woods, near Market Rasen, and arrives at The Royal Oak (The Splash), in Little Cawthorpe.
Riders can join the run at the start or at any of the stop-off points around the route, which will be announced at standrewshospice.com/motorbikerun. All makes, models and engine sizes are welcome.
It costs £10 per bike to enter, which is payable on the day. For more information, call 01472 571268 or 07487 703970.
