John and Wendy Bramble are part of the 'Bikers for Action South West' group, who organise an annual motorcycle charity ride, from Weymouth to Exmouth, via West Bay. Bikers pay to attend the ride, and through sponsorship (local individuals and businesses) they are able to purchase merchandise to sell to the participants, such as wrist bands and t-shirts printed with the annual logo, which everyone wears over their jackets. It is a great sight to see. They also have fantastic supporters that sell food and drink on the day, who then put a large percentage of their sales back into the charity pot!
The ride began as a one-off event back in 2015, following another successful charity ride, and a request was made to do another. John and Wendy knew someone that worked at Clouds House and they suggested the charity. They decided to have a look into Action on Addiction and felt connected due to a family loss. Whilst departing the first ride, the bikers were saying ‘see you next year’! They were shocked by the support received and such amazing feedback that they knew the ride had to continue.
Each year the ride grows bigger in support, not only with riders, but donations. From their first charity motorcycle ride for Action on Addiction in 2015, they raised over £2,500, then in 2019 they raised over an amazing £9,000. From their donations over the last 5 years have helped to renovate a client bedroom, support the M-PACT programme and build a woodland walk at our Clouds House residential treatment centre.
They are now preparing for their 6th annual ride which was due to take place in April 2020 but had to be postpone to 12th September 2021 due to the COVID-19 restrictions. This has not stopped them from smashing their online target. If you would like to donate, click here.
John and Wendy say "this ride has meant a huge amount to us, showing how much great support there is out there. It gives an opportunity to have open communication and conversations with people that do not normally feel comfortable to talk about the many forms of addiction and the effects on the individuals, family and friends."
"The benefits of these events are helping us to deal with our loss and know that we are helping others. Our support is phenomenal and has grown each year, for which we are grateful."
"Anyone who is thinking of fundraising, be prepared for some hard work, focus, and enthusiasm. If possible, get a good support team behind you, and believe us the effort is more than worth it."
- John & Wendy Bramble and the ‘Bikers for Action’ team