In a heartfelt celebration of compassion, selflessness, and community spirit, Northumbria Blood Bikes recently named their newest addition, "The Bebby," in a moving ceremony and photoshoot held at The Bebside Inn in Northumberland. The event was not just a mere bike naming; it was a testament to the unwavering commitment of dedicated volunteers who go above and beyond to support their community. In this blog post, we'll delve into the heartwarming story behind "The Bebby" and the incredible work of Northumbria Blood Bikes.
The Bebby Emerges in Gleaming Glory
On a bright October day, the Koast Radio Outside Broadcast & Events Team, comprising The G-Man, Shaun R, and Karen R, gathered at The Bebside Inn. Their presence was not coincidental; it was a tribute to their relentless efforts in supporting Northumbria Blood Bikes. For over five years, this trio had been a steadfast presence at fundraising events for the organization, with The G-Man standing out as an ardent fundraiser for NBB. The star of the day, "The Bebby," a sleek BMW R1250RT, was transported to the shoot by the devoted Blood Biker, Alan Johnston. The motorcycle sparkled in the welcoming October sunshine, symbolizing hope and camaraderie.
The Remarkable Northumbria Blood Bikes
Northumbria Blood Bikes is part of a nationwide network of Blood Bike groups. These selfless volunteers play a crucial role in delivering essential blood and urgent medical supplies during the unholy hours when hospitals need them the most. Serving the North East of England, NBB's operational area spans from Berwick-Upon-Tweed to Darlington, encompassing cities, counties, and numerous healthcare facilities.
In situations where time is of the essence, such as saving a patient's life, blood or vital medical items need to be delivered swiftly. This is where Blood Bikes shine with their distinctive livery and nimble profile, allowing them to maneuver through congested traffic, reaching their destinations with haste. They also employ cars when dealing with bulky items or facing extreme weather conditions, ensuring their services are available every day of the year.
A Legacy of Dedication
The journey of Northumbria Blood Bikes began in September 2012, driven by a group of dedicated volunteers. Supported by the Nationwide Association of Blood Bikes and other like-minded organizations, they launched live operations in February 2014. By the end of the year, they were aiding hospitals across the region and, since 2015, have extended their support to the Great North Air Ambulance Service, delivering daily to its aircraft bases.
Today, Northumbria Blood Bikes perform approximately 15,000 deliveries annually, with the demand for their services growing continuously. Their incredible dedication and professionalism have not gone unnoticed. In June 2017, the organization received The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service, often considered the MBE for voluntary groups. This accolade underscores the tremendous value of their work and the unyielding commitment of their volunteers.
Conclusion: "The Bebby" - A Symbol of Hope and Dedication
"The Bebby" is not just a name on a motorcycle; it's a symbol of hope, resilience, and unwavering dedication to a noble cause. Northumbria Blood Bikes, with their network of volunteers and a fleet of vehicles, serve as a beacon of support to healthcare facilities when they need it most. Their work, carried out entirely through charitable donations and the priceless gift of volunteers' time, epitomizes the incredible spirit of community service. As we celebrate the official naming of "The Bebby," let's also celebrate the heartwarming story behind it and the remarkable work of Northumbria Blood Bikes. To learn more about their work and how you can support them, visit Northumbria Blood Bikes.
