Our Biker Breakfast Co.llaboration with Westcotec has been in the diary since spring 2020, so it was only fitting that two years later this long-awaited event could finally happen under glorious sunshine at the beautiful Barnham Broom Hotel. The breakfast started with networking, teas, and coffee amongst an array of helmets and chatter. Chris Sargisson, Norfolk Chambers CEO welcomed our guests and explained that “this event is an opportunity for us to say thank you, where thank you is needed to be said. The Biker community stepped up to the challenge during the pandemic and showed genuine community spirit, supporting the NHS, care homes, and delivering to those in need”. Chris Spinks, CEO of Westcotec said, “We’re proud to sponsor the biker breakfast event and work in Co.llaboration with Norfolk Chambers”. Chris spoke of his previous career within the Norfolk and Suffolk Constabulary and seeing firsthand the results of not following road safety. We also heard from Andy Lawer, part of the Safe Rider Scheme within the Norfolk Constabulary. Andy spent 20 years riding Police bikes in London, before moving to Norfolk. He has worked for NATO, escorting PMs and dignitaries, and members of the royal family. He spoke of the superb training he received as an advanced rider and elements of the role, “it’s about educating riders and talking, and asking if they (the riders) can see, that what they are doing isn’t right”. “We take the guidelines we’re given, we pass them on to the public and it makes people safer on the road. Above all, we want people to thoroughly enjoy riding, and then get home safe”. Following a delicious breakfast, we heard from Lydia McClintock, Manager of Infinity Norwich. Lydia talked of the improvements and developments to safety rider wear, showing examples with new custom clothing, and grading standards, and talked of new certifications coming into play to enhance rider safety. Our event charity was Nelson’s Journey, with guest speaker Gary Stevens. Nelson’s Journey is an incredible charity. Nelson’s Journey supports children and young people in Norfolk who’ve experienced the death of a significant person. We provide a range of resources and services, and accept referrals from families and professionals for those who may need our support. Since 1997, Nelson’s Journey has helped thousands of bereaved children and young people in the county. It is thanks to the tremendous support of our local community that our work is possible. Finally, Tim James, Design and Development Engineer at Westcotec closed the event, with a run-through of the route back to Norwich. The 90km route included stops at Lings Triumph, Seastar Superbikes and C J Ball Honda & Suzuki.
