Peak District ride out in support of local lifesaving air ambulance

On Sunday 24 April, a group of motorcycle riders will take to the Peak District roads in an organised ride out to help raise funds for the local lifesaving air ambulance.

The Peak District Motorcycle Group have planned the ride out in support of founding group member, Jordan Richardson (21), who recently needed the vital Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA) to fly to his aid.

The Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance crew bring an expert level of pre-hospital emergency care and rapid response to trauma and medical emergencies, the dedicated critical care paramedics and doctors on-board are able to perform out of hospital surgical procedures– effectively bringing the hospital to the patient.

“On Saturday 9 April, Jordan was unfortunately involved in a serious motorbiking incident where the local air ambulance helped to save his life,” said John Wasley, Peak District Motorcycle Group member, and admin.

“Jordan loves motorcycle riding and had originally planned this ride out for the group – so in dedication to Jordan, while he remains in hospital, his family and the admin team have decided to proceed with the planned ride as a fundraiser for the DLRAA,” he continued.

The Facebook group was founded by Jordan in 2019 to create a community of like-minded local riders who wanted to ride together and explore the roads of the Peak District.

With the group’s support, other local biking communities, and Jordan’s family and friends, the group are hoping for a turn out of at least 60 riders.

Starting at 10am, the ride will take a scenic tour around the Peak District – following roads through Chatsworth, Hathersage, Man Torr, Edale, Whaley Bridge, Goyt Valley, Buxton, Hurdlow, Newhaven,  Grangemill, Cromford, and Matlock Bath – starting and finishing at the Grouse Inn pub, Matlock.

“The charity relies solely on public donations for each lifesaving mission, so we hope to see as many local bikers on the ride as possible to support such a great cause,” added John.

DLRAA Community Fundraising Executive, Tracey Jones said, “My thoughts are with Jordan, his family, and friends during this difficult time, and I hope he makes a full recovery.

“On behalf of the charity, I’d like to say a big thank you to the group and everyone else for the incredible support they have shown for our frontline service – because of fundraisers like these, we can continue being there for Derbyshire people in their hour of need.”

The generous donations via the JustGiving page have already surpassed £1,000 and anyone wishing to donate to the lifesaving charity can do so here.