SAVING BIKERS'' LIVES
26 October 2005 - Bikesure

Tony Petch was 31 when he died of the injuries he suffered in a motorbike accident in 2003 near Kings Lynn.

That was despite the attentions of the Air Ambulance, who flew him to Addenbrookes. If he''d had expert first aid immediately after the crash, he might have had a better chance of survival. But how many ordinary people, or even ordinary bikers, would have known how to help him?

Recently Tony''s girlfriend, Laura Pettifar, heard of a new course offered by St. John Ambulance specifically designed for motorbike accidents. She contacted the charity who told her that the nearest scheduled course was in Norwich, but if she could organise a venue and get people to come along, they would provide a trainer to run a course in Kings Lynn.

Once Laura had arranged a venue and date, she approached her local newspaper, the Lynn News, to ask them to encourage local bikers to go on the course. Seeing the story, specialist insurer Bikesure, also based in Kings Lynn, called the paper and offered to pay the costs for those attending the course.

''When I found out about the new course I just realised that I should try to get involved. Anything to raise the awareness of people''s ability to help save riders'' lives,'' Laura says. ''It''s fantastic that the newspaper and Bikesure have given their support.''

The course takes place in Kings Lynn on November 12th 2005. Thanks to Bikesure attendance is free but places are limited, so anyone interested should contact Laura on 07990 526 433. Laura has also said she''ll happily organise more courses in Kings Lynn if interest is high.

Meanwhile, if you''re interested in finding out about where the St. John Ambulance course is held in other areas in the UK, call 08700 104950. The course costs from around £25 to £38 per person, depending on how many attend and whether it is a scheduled course or specially organised.

www.bikesure.co.uk

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