A CHARITY which delivers life-saving blood to hospitals and roadside emergencies received a donation from a local group last month, ahead of their annual fundraising event.

Forest of Dean Inner Wheel president Lynn Ellis presented Joe Logan, trustee of Severn Freewheelers, with a cheque at an event at Forest Hills Golf Club in Coleford, which brought together Rotarians, partners and guests.

Inner Wheel’s Sue Boulter said: “The charity is also known as the Blood Bikes, and Joe gave an informative talk about how the charity, run by volunteers, receives no public funding yet works closely with NHS Trusts to provide a medical courier service free to the point of need.

“This service makes significant savings of around £750,000 a year for the NHS.

“The bikers use blue flashing lights in emergencies, but are not allowed to jump red lights to deliver blood and plasma to hospitals and roadside emergencies.

“Breast milk, scan results, and patient’s personal effects and prescriptions are also carried by the bikers in shifts from 7pm through to 7am. They also work alongside the Air Ambulance service, and operate in the Cheltenham, Gloucester, Southmead, and Hereford areas.

“Joe stressed how important it is to let the Blood Bikes past if we happen to see them on the road in our rear-view mirror.

“Fundraising is important as the service costs £78,000 per annum and involves running eight bikes in four counties.

“A set of tyres only lasts 6,000 miles, but Severn Freewheelers cover 30,000 miles a year.”

Severn Freewheelers’ main fundraising is the Prescott Bike Fest near Cheltenham on June 15 to 16.

“The charity is also looking for volunteers to assist the co-ordinator role,” Sue added, “and to take phone calls, to further assist the NHS to save funds.”

To find out more or to volunteer, visit www.severnfreewheelers.org.uk or call 0800 368 9306.