A GENEROUS team of motorbike enthusiasts has been working hard to give thanks to the county’s paramedics for their work on the front lines during the coronavirus crisis.

The Cruise4Crews fundraising unit all work at Pattemores Transport in Crewkerne, and are set to deliver ‘pamper hampers’ to 10 paramedic stations across Somerset.

They have raised almost £700 through a Crowdfunder page, with an extra £500 backing from their employer.

The cause also has the backing of a number of local businesses, donating items for the hampers.

Mike Matthews, one of the organisers, said: “You are no doubt painfully aware that over the past few months this terrible virus has devastated families, not only close to home, but across the world.

“Throughout this period of uncertainty, there are individuals who unselfishly continue to supply services that are vital to our community.

“Putting their lives on the line and potentially those of their families, Paramedics crews have carried out their duties, and continue to do so, at times above and beyond what is required of them.”

With lockdown procedures starting to be relaxed, the Cruise4Crews team have set their paramedic station tour for September 5.

The journey will see them visit:

  • Ilminster
  • Taunton
  • Minehead
  • Bridgwater
  • Burnham
  • Glastonbury
  • Shepton Mallet
  • Frome
  • Wincanton
  • Yeovil

Mike added: “We have been promised help from Tesco in Chard and Ilminster, Thomas fudge biscuits, Bookers wholesaler, Devon truck show and few smaller companies.

“The donations and goods purchased will all go to ambulance crews directly.

“ We as a group believe that the paramedics are an amazing group of individuals that are important to our lives as HGV drivers and motorcycle riders.”

If you would like to donate, visit crowdfunder.co.uk/cruise-4-crews.

Mike said: “We have already raised a considerable sum of money, with donations from various sources and continue to contact many local businesses for further support.”