Magic motorbike moments bring back memories for former army display team rider

A trip down memory lane organised by local homecare provider Right at Home GF has re-ignited a passion for motorbikes in a former army dispatch rider and member of the Royal Signals’ display team.

Ninety-five year old Norman is a client of Right at Home GF who, like many of his peers, has a fascinating background and great memories of a life well lived. When Norman’s caregiver Jan heard about his passion for motorbikes, she arranged for him to meet up with a local motorbike club, the Hogsback Chapter, complete with a selection of stunning motorbikes including a Triumph belonging to the chapter director, Dell Evans.

“We introduced an initiative called Magic Moments to enable our team of caregivers to arrange experiences that help our clients enjoy things in life that many of us take for granted, such as visiting a favourite place or rediscovering an old hobby. Norman’s meet up with the Hogsback Chapter is a great example of one of our Magic Moments,” explains Alastair Shanks, Managing Director of Right at Home GF.

“Motorbikes have been an important part of Norman’s life since he was a teen, throughout his career and into retirement. He doesn’t ride these days, but our caregiver could see that that hasn’t dampened his interest. By arranging a get together with her own motorbike club, caregiver Jan gave Norman an amazing day out that he will remember for a long time to come. He was able to chat to fellow enthusiasts and draw on his extensive knowledge to answer their questions. He could also get close to the bikes and no doubt tell some great stories from his own experiences. I’d like to thank the Hogsback Chapter who welcomed Norman to their group - he had a fabulous day.”

Norman became a dispatch rider for the army at just 14, later joining the Royal Signals Corps and subsequently its display team. His love of bikes led him to build his own engineering business in Croydon, where he rode each day on his much-loved Triumph.

At weekends he enjoyed meeting biker friends for rides followed by a bacon sandwich and chat at Newlands Corner where his wife Molly and their daughters would often join them.

When Norman started receiving homecare from Right at Home GF, he was matched with a caregiver who also enjoys motorbikes and is an active member of a motorbike club. They enjoy talking about bikes and rides during Norman’s care visits. Right at Home GF views giving care as much more than assisting with health and physical needs. It has developed initiatives such as Magic Moments to enhance clients’ enjoyment of their lives.

The Hogsback Chapter describes itself as a fun, friendly club for owners of Harley Davidson motorbikes. It organises regular rides, fundraises for charities and runs social activities for its members.