Biker Mary’s dreams come true

When Mary said she would love to be able to ride a motorbike again, she didn’t actually think it would ever happen at the age of 91.

But it did… all thanks to the activities team at The Warren.

Mary had her own motorbike back in the day and she often tells a story of when she was on the back of her boyfriend’s bike.

He went so fast over a humpback bridge she was catapulted up in the air and then landed on the hard seat again.

She was injured and in pain for some time and, funnily enough, he wasn’t her boyfriend for much longer!

When Mary mentioned this, Kirstie Bush, the life enrichment lead at the home, called Wishlist Bikers, a charity based in Beccles that has a 1500cc Rewako Trike.

The charity was formed by Keith, who started it because of his uncle, who was a biker but could not ride again after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

Unable to find a suitable trike for him to be able to go out on rides they started building their own. Years later, they have a custom-made trike from Germany that started its life in the Canary Islands doing guided tours!

It now allows people with disabilities to enjoy a trip out and gives riders so much fun and joy.

“The Warren arranged for the trike to take 12 of our residents to ride, and what a day they had,” said Kirstie.

“The eldest rider was 98 and the youngest was 80.”

Some residents were joined by family and friends and the others were accompanied by the staff at the home who were keen to get in the saddle, too.

They all enjoyed a 20-minute spin.

“The sun was out, the weather was warm and it was just the perfect day,” said Kirstie.

“Ken and the ground crew worked tirelessly along with his wife Debbie and their rider for the day, John.

“They all gave the residents the kindness, care and attention to ensure their ride was safe, smooth and as fun as possible.”

Mary, who set the whole scheme in motion, said: “I never thought I would do anything like this again.

“It was great fun but so far from what I
was used to riding back when I was younger.”

The other residents who rode were Rosemary, June, Peter, Paul, David, Shirley, two Margarets, Lionel and Melly.

They all enjoyed their rides, with one asking if she could have another go…

“At 95, we weren’t going to say No!” said Kirstie.