The ride was led by Ben’s mother, Carol Healy, driving her mother in the family’s 1952 MG, Bluebell. (Picture by Tom Tardiff. 0634914)
MORE than 150 bikers took part in the Ben Davies charity ride yesterday.
The event was to raise money for the Caritas Community Charitable Trust, which hopes to establish a community for young people in difficulty.
Mr Davies died last month in a motorcycle crash in St Peter’s. His mother, Carol Healy, organised the event as a fund-raiser but also in memory of her son, a keen motorcyclist.
She led the procession along with her mother in her 1952 sky-blue MG.
‘His friend came up with the idea of a tribute ride for him on bikes,’ said Mrs Healy. ‘We’ve been very fortunate with the weather. I’ve seen some very impressive bikes here, Ben would have been well pleased.’
She said she was amazed by the number of people who had turned up to show their support.
‘It’s tremendous. Absolutely tremendous. Ben would have been so proud.’
There was a real mix of vehicles at the ride, from scooters to Harley-Davidsons and even some quads.
The Rev. Richard Bellinger, who conducted Ben’s funeral, also joined in, arriving on his recumbent bicycle.
‘I think this is a wonderful tribute to him,’ he said. ‘It’s very moving as a lot of people have been touched by what happened to Ben. This is a sign of solidarity.
‘What’s also moving is that people got together on something that can help another person through a difficult position, which is what we all need to do.’
Mark and Wendy Pratt had come La Houguette School for the ride.
‘I’m here because I knew Ben,’ said Mr Pratt.
‘It’s very sad what happened and it’s nice to be able to do something to help.’
The route took the riders from La Houguette School up to the Venture Inn, down towards Pleinmont then along the coast, finishing at North Beach car park. Teas, hotdogs and cakes were on hand after the ride.
Anyone wanting to help the Caritas Community Charitable Trust should send a donation to the treasurer, Tony Pickford, addressed to Caritas Treasurer, Monique, Les Mourants, St Martin’s, GY4 6TW.
You can view more photos of the ride, here.
Article posted on 8th September, 2008 - 1.00pm
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