Pothole Damage Threatens Lifesaving Work of Blood Bike Charity

A volunteer charity that transports vital blood and medical supplies to hospitals has warned that deteriorating road conditions are beginning to impact its ability to operate.

Severn Freewheelers, which runs a fleet of nine “blood bikes” across Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire, says more than half of its motorcycles have been damaged this year due to poor road surfaces.

Since February alone, five bikes have required significant repairs after hitting potholes, placing additional strain on the organisation.

Simon Groves, the charity’s fundraising manager, said the situation is becoming increasingly serious. While the group has been operating for two decades, he explained that worsening road conditions are making it harder to continue delivering its service. Repair costs linked to pothole damage have already reached around £5,000 this year.

The charity is entirely volunteer-run and does not receive financial support from the NHS or government, despite providing its services free of charge.

In response to the growing issue, Severn Freewheelers has contacted local authorities across the regions it serves and plans to raise the matter with MPs.

Groves said the organisation is committed to supporting the NHS but acknowledged that ongoing vehicle damage makes it more difficult to maintain its service. He added that not being able to operate as expected can be frustrating for volunteers who are dedicated to helping patients.

Wiltshire Council has recognised the scale of the problem, describing it as a long-standing issue. Officials said reduced funding from central government in real terms has made it more challenging to keep up with maintenance demands.

Councillor Martin Smith, cabinet member for highways, noted that reports of potholes have increased significantly, with numbers tripling. He added that more than 6,000 potholes have already been repaired in the county this year.