A Cumbrian charity which provides a lifesaving service to the community will be raising funds at Carlisle United’s first game of the season.
Blood Bikes Cumbria will be at Brunton Park tomorrow.
They will be fundraising in and around the Blues’ fanzone before the Fleetwood Town game.
The volunteer-led service, which delivers critical blood supplies and urgent specimens, is one of United’s nominated charities.
Their team and bikes will be at the ground from 1.30-3pm.
Jim White, chairman of Blood Bikes Cumbria, says many of the charity’s volunteers are Carlisle supporters and season ticket holders.
“I’m very grateful to Nigel Clibbens [United’s chief executive] and the Carlisle United board for agreeing to support Blood Bikes Cumbria once again this season as one of their nominated charities,” he said.
“Blood Bikes Cumbria has had a long standing relationship with Carlisle United and we are delighted that this will continue throughout the 2023/24 season.”
The charity will be at the Warwick Road End entrance and in the fanzone on the west side of the ground.
Blood Bikes Cumbria is run by some 150 Cumbrian volunteers 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, in support of the NHS and Great North Air Ambulance by providing free out of hours cover.
They transport blood and laboratory samples between hospitals in Cumbria, and from the Cumberland Infirmary to specialist laboratories in Newcastle, including the Royal Victoria Infirmary.
“While all our members are unpaid, it costs our charity money to keep our bikes on the road, so every penny we raise is vital to continue our lifesaving service,” said Jim.
“We save the NHS and Great North Air Ambulance in the region of £400,000 a year delivering critical blood supplies and urgent specimens.
“But more importantly, we are there for you when you need us: and we are proud to say we deliver without fail.
“We are incredibly proud of our ability to support our local community in their time of need.”
As well as supporting the NHS, the charity say they save the Great North Air Ambulance more than £80,000 a year, adding: “The Pride of Cumbria medical team has achieved over 500 lifesaving blood transfusions throughout Cumbria: we are incredibly proud to play our part in delivering this vital life-saving capability.”
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