Volunteer motorbike rides who provide a critical service across Cumbria have clocked up enough miles to drive twice around the globe so far this year.
Blood Bikes Cumbria have travelled over 81,900 miles, delivering medical supplies including blood, medication and breast milk between sites in Cumbria and also to laboratories in the Newcastle area.
They also ensure the daily delivery of blood and plasma supplies to the Langwathby base of the Great North Air Ambulance.
The volunteers provide an out-of-hours courier service as well as 24-hour cover during weekends and bank holidays.
The group was formed seven years ago, funded by donations.
Graeme Thompson, operations manager for Blood Bikes Cumbria, said: “In the seven years that we have provided our service to the NHS, our duties have expanded considerably.
“In 2020 we carried out almost 2,000, collecting from 45 separate locations. So far this year we have already completed over 1,300 runs.
“Our team are all dedicated volunteers who give up their time, 365 days a year, to help ease some of the pressure medical teams by transporting essential packages.
“We are very grateful to the people of Cumbria who have donated towards our running costs in the past seven years.
“This generosity enables us to continue to provide our service, free of charge.”
Steve Hurd, haematology team manager, blood sciences at Carlisle’s Cumberland Infirmary added: “The team of volunteers have maintained the provision of scheduled runs and an urgent call out service.
“They always work in an entirely professional and dedicated way and never once in these seven years have they failed to deliver.
“I urge you, our Cumbrian community, to get behind the group in any way you can as they have had our backs over the last seven years.”
For more information visit their website: http://www.bloodbikescumbria.org.uk/
