Merseyside RoADAR Motorcycle Group Latest News
As you will have seen on the home page we as a group where successfull at the RoADAR National Groups competition, the finals of which where held in Birmingham. So here is some background and information about this event.
The RoADAR Awards were initiated to highlight the hard work and dedication of volunteers form across the 60+ in the UK. Judges were particularly keen to hear about: how groups had raised awareness of advanced skills to both young and older riders during2011; partnerships with like-minded organisations; and, general group promotional activities.
There was a strict format for the entries and this was compiled and submitted by Ivan Guy (if you want to see the submitted entry see here
this lists the events and initiatives the group had been involved with during 2011, such as Motorcycle Awareness Day, St Helen Council, Ormskirk Motor-Fest. August.2011 and Mega-Drive- Sefton Council. Other items included where our information leaflet, advertising video and this web site.
From all the entries, a shortlist of 5 groups where invited to make a presentation to a panel of judges, who included Tom Mullarkey, RoSPA's chief executive. Once again Ivan stepped into the breach and produced a very well delivered presentation, supported by a group of hangers-on and ner-do-wells, who did a great job of watching and eating the buffet!
The Judges withdrew to make there deliberations, then came the moment of truth. In all great tradition, the results where in reverse order, and as each group was called up we realised we were 4th then 3rd and finally awarded 2nd place- Hurrah! The prize was £500 for club funds.
The judges had been impressed with the speed and energy we had established ourselves. They believed the groups partnerships with a wide range of organisations, including fire and rescue service, police, ambulance service, and councils across Merseyside, and the number of events attended around the area, clearly demonstrated its incredible level of enthusiasm and commitment to promoting advanced motorcycling.
We believe to have come this far in the time we have been going is amazing and must have given the other groups something to think about, when they look at the time they have been around, some of which were over25 years. As Ivan said "I can not believe we have come so far in such a short time"
After considering the options, it has been decided to use the £500 to buy utility belts for the radios and first aid kits and belts for all the tutors.
I think the whole group should offer a vote of thanks to Ivan for his hard work, both in preparing the video, submitting the application and producing and delivering the presentation-Cheers Ivan.
