Third bikers day to remember Conrad
A special event to commemorate a Claverdon paratrooper who died in Afghanistan in 2011 is set to attract motorcyclists from all over the country this month.
‘Conrad’s Ride’ will take place on 23 July from Ragley Hall before finishing at the Old Leamingtonians Rugby Club in Leamington, for an evening of street food, arena displays and music.
Money raised at the event will go to the 353 Trust started by the family of Conrad Lewis, who was the 353 soldier to lose his life in Afghanistan.
The trust supports a number of charities including Troop Aid and Supporting our Paras.
Organisers say the event has something for everyone, whether they have a motorcycle or not, and Afghanistan veterans Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson and Major Jen Warren who recently returned from the Invictus games with nine medals, will be there.
The arena show will include a trial riding display from ex-champion Alun Wright and friends, a display of American and European custom trucks and a vintage motorcycle display.
The headline musical act at the event will be Erica, who performed previously at Conrad’s Festival.
Tony Lewis, Conrad’s father said: “It’s a day of three parts really, so people can come to whichever parts they want to or all of it if they like, last year we had 250 motorcyclists take part. We’ve got the motorbike ride, the arena displays and we’ve got some fantastic music later on. Erica are a great group, I think they’re about to be discovered and I’m hoping people will be able to say they saw them here.”
Tickets for the evening are £5 and overnight camping is available.
Last month Extreme Gym in Stratford held a special pamper day to raise money for the 353 Trust, with local businesses throwing their support behind the day.
The event raised £142.69 for the Trust and visitors were treated to makeovers, facials, nails and reiki treatments, whilst a raffle was also organised.
Mr Lewis added: “Any support we get is gratefully received, whether it’s from a new partner or local businesses, it’s really humbling because I know how hard it can be to raise money.”
For more information about Conrad’s Ride, visit www.353.org.uk.
