Training school launched for new bikers

Safer motorbike riding in Devon has received a boost with the announcement that Devon Freewheelers is to offer accredited training for new riders – with a special launch price just in time for Christmas.

The emergency biker charity has recently been awarded accreditation by the Driving Standards Agency to run a compulsory basic training (CBT) course and Direct Access training. By law, new riders must possess the CBT certificate before they ride on public roads.

Daniel Lavery, Chief Executive of Devon Freewheelers said: “This is a really significant development, both for the charity and anyone in East Devon who wants to get on the road with a motorbike.”

The move came after increasing numbers of visitors to the charity’s Honiton offices asked about CBT training for their children.

“Parents told us they would feel confident knowing their child was being trained by one of our experienced emergency bikers,” explained Daniel. “Safety is our number one priority so it seemed a logical step for the charity.

“We now have four fully trained Direct Access instructors, registered and accredited by the Driving Standards Agency and we can offer training from the beginning of CBT to full licence acquisition for the biggest bikes on the road,” he added.

Training with Devon Freewheelers will also contribute to fundraising. Any profit raised goes straight back into the charity’s funds to assist them in continuing with their life saving work, transporting urgent bloods, drugs and tissue samples for transplant to the NHS in Devon.

“Many charities are having to move into commercial enterprise to raise funds. As we have a wealth of experienced and willing riders at our disposal, it makes sense to utilise their skills to support our work,” said Daniel.

CBT certification takes a day, and can cost around £140, but to celebrate the launch of the new riding school, Devon Freewheelers is offering the first 100 courses to be booked at only £75 to include the use of the charity’s motorbikes, site and the certificate.

This will make an ideal and unusual Christmas gift idea for a teenager or partner who wants to learn to ride a motorbike.

The offer runs until December 31 2013 and the voucher is valid for a full year. It is available on a first come first served basis. Booking is via the contact form on www.bloodbikes.org or you can call 0300 800 0105 for more information.