A TEAM of intrepid bikers braved stormy conditions on a visit to a hospice.

On Saturday last week, St. Michael’s Hospice, in Aldermaston Road, enjoyed a visit from a fundraising motorbike group from St. Michael’s Hospice in Hereford.

Over the course of the weekend, the ‘St. Michael’s Hospice Riders’ travelled across England as part of a fundraising challenge, stopping off at all four Hospices that carry the St. Michael’s name; including St. Michael’s Hospices based in Basingstoke, Hastings and Harrogate, before returning home to Hereford.

Basingstoke-based riders joined the group as they approached the town, escorting them safely into the hospice to enjoy lunch and warm themselves before embarking on the next leg of their journey to Hastings.

Joining the 13-strong group from Hereford were Unity Support Riders, known for their support of the Big Wheel and London to Canterbury Challenge.

Overall, the riders travelled 793 miles, braving the elements to raise funds for their hospice.

The event coincides with Hospice Care Week, taking place this week, which celebrates the work of hospices and encourages supporters to get involved with their local hospice to make a difference.

Iain Cameron, acting chief executive of St. Michael’s Hospice (North Hampshire), said: “We were delighted to host the St. Michael’s Hospice Riders on the first leg of their journey across England."

“When we heard about the challenge we jumped at the chance to meet with staff and volunteers from another hospice who carry our name.

“It was fantastic to see not only the Hereford riders but also volunteers from our local community who kindly escorted them into our grounds. We were so impressed by the group’s unwavering spirits despite Saturday’s downpour and would welcome them to visit us again very soon.”