THE bereaved family of a motorcyclist who was killed in a road accident last year have organised a charity “ride out” in his memory.

Danielle Nuttall

THE bereaved family of a motorcyclist who was killed in a road accident last year have organised a charity “ride out” in his memory.

Darren Elmy, 29, of Brantham, died in New England, Essex, in September after he was involved in a collision with another motorcyclist.

He was due to marry his fiancée Charlotte Bishop last month.

Mr Elmy's mother, Janet Elmy, has now organised a motorcycle ride to raise money for the Spinal Research charity.

Mrs Elmy, of Church Lane, Brantham, said: “Family, friends and motorcycles were the most important things in Darren' life and so that his name will live on in peoples memories and to support other motorcyclists we have organised a charity event to raise money for the 'Ride out for Spinal Research' campaign which is part of the charity, Spinal Research.

“Spinal injuries are a very real risk to motorcyclists. The funding this charity receives will go to vital research into spinal cord repair.

“More and more people are taking their tests on motorcycles these days, for practical reasons as well as the exhilarating experience, so unfortunately the need for this research is growing.”

More than 100 bikers are expected to attend the ride out in Mr Elmy's memory.

His family have also hired Copdock Village Hall as part of the charity extravaganza, which will include a live band, barbecue, auction and raffle. They hope to raise up to £1,500 for the charity.

“Motorcyclists are like family. They stick together and look after each other. I thought he would have liked something related to motorcyclists,” said Mrs Elmy.

“One of Darren's friends had a spinal injury from a motorcycle accident and was left in a wheelchair so it seemed the right thing to do.

“When it's your child, you go through life doing things for them and it doesn't change. You're still trying to do the next thing for them even though they're not here.”

The event takes place on August 30 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 and can be obtained from Mrs Elmy on 07979 781008 or Miss Bishop on 07824 394845.