THE vital role of Blood Bikers across the country is something that can easily be taken for granted — but without them the consequences would be disastrous.

Six months ago the Cornwall Blood Bike Service was almost extinct. Its equipment coordinator Ian Butler thinks it is time their profile was raised across Cornwall and beyond.

Formally known as Cornwall Freewheelers, the Cornwall Blood Bike Service is made up of a team of dedicated volunteer motorcyclists who have a passion for riding and have decided to apply the skills they have gained to help the communities they live in.

One of the volunteers, Conrad Dowding of Launceston, said: "The main difference between the Freewheelers and the Blood Bike Service is the name. Though our charity is a member of the National Association of Blood Bikes, Freewheelers, that in itself does not mean much to the general public or indeed to many of the nurses and staff we meet doing our job. Cornwall Blood Bikes, however, does what is says on the tin, which will hopefully make us more recognisable."

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.