Motorbike donated in memory of biker will help country's heroes

Bolton Armed Forces Centre for Veterans is organising a charity night to raise money to help ex-forces to adapt to life on "Civvy Street" where a motorbike belonging to Rickie Johnson, who died at the age of the just 34, will be auctioned off.

His family, who live in Wigan, have donated the motorbike to the centre because of their links to the armed forces and especially Rickie’s support for those serving their country.

Cait Smith from the centre, based in the town centre, said: “We feel so humbled to have had this bike donated to us.

"We appealed for help to replace and restore the bike and so many people have got in touch to help and do the work.

"The bike is being resprayed and will have tributes to Rickie and a young solider as well as the badge of the Bolton Armed Forces Centre."

She added: "The motorbike will be auctioned off at a rock charity night we are organising at Rivington.

"The money the motorbike will raise will make a huge difference to the veterans. We are hoping to buy a minibus so we can do outreach work with the veterans."

The centre helps veterans with issues they may face when leaving the forces, such as with housing, mental health and general welfare.

Rickie had wanted to follow his father into the armed forces but was unable to do so on medical grounds.

Rickie’s mum, Elaine said: "Rickie wanted to serve in his father regiment and he would be really pleased that the bike is going to raising money for veterans.

"I would rather that the bike be used to do some good."

Mrs Johnson praised the biking community for their ongoing support following their only child’s death. They travelled from across the country for the funeral service.

She said: “They have been wonderful and say we are family which is really nice."

Ms Smith said she was in the process of setting a date for the charity night and invited businesses to sponsor or support the event in anyway.

Anyone can help should ring the 01204 776628.