Meet The Volunteers

A Motorbike Steward’s Tale of Community and Charity at the Foulness Bike Ride

This is Megan Hart. She is one of the many priceless volunteers for the Foulness Bike Ride. Without support from volunteers, events like ours simply cannot happen.

So what makes someone volunteer? Is volunteering just for the benefit of others? Or does the action of volunteering have its own value, for every single person that donates their precious time?

Megan Hart’s role at the Foulness Bike Ride is unique – she is the only motorbike steward. Most volunteer roles are as standing or seated stewards around the course or registration point – you do not need a bike for these roles. Apply to volunteer now.

How did you get involved in the Foulness Bike Ride?

Megan’s connection with the Foulness Bike Ride started early. “My first experience was taking part in the ride with my parents when I was about 10 years old. I loved it back then, and because my parents have been involved with volunteering for a few years now, and because I’ve seen what they’ve done and the enjoyment it’s given them, I was totally up for getting involved too.”

In 2023, Megan volunteered on the registration desk. The following year brought a unique opportunity. “During the planning for the 2024 event I overheard there was a need for a motorcycling steward to be able to get around the circuit quicker. I loved the idea of it so when it was mentioned to me I said a definite yes!” Her passion for motorbiking, ignited in 2019, made her the perfect fit. “I love it because it’s exciting and there’s such a great motorbike community.”

Megan’s role was dynamic and crucial. “Because I could travel the entire route in a short space of time I was able to see riders register at the start and also see them collect their medals at the end, which was a great feeling. I think I did about 50 laps of the circuit in total, which included monitoring the route and helping keep people on course.” Her motorbike allowed her to respond swiftly to any issues. “Being on the motorbike meant I could quickly get to points that needed extra manpower, for example if a vehicle needed to cross the route I was able to get there and pause riders until it was safe to continue.”

Megan played a vital role in ensuring rider safety. “If there were any bicycle problems like punctures or people needed medical assistance I could get there quickly and guide either the bike repair man, or the medical crew to the exact location.” She also supported fellow volunteers. “We had a coach to drop them off to their points and I helped make sure they were in the right place, and if a particular point got busy with riders, I went there to help them manage the flow… I was also there to make sure no-one got left behind on the island once the coach arrived to pick the stewards up at the end.”

Breaking Perceptions

Megan’s presence as a young woman on a motorbike challenged stereotypes, a fact she embraces. “I love that it challenges people’s perceptions of motorbike riders! I’ve only ever had positive reactions… People are really lovely and usually want to have a chat and find out about my bike – a Honda CB500X.”

For Megan, the most rewarding aspect was simple: “Definitely seeing people enjoy themselves, safely… You hear a lot of negativity about the world and people’s behavior – but an event like this is about people coming together to do good things, and it gives you a bit of faith in humanity.” Her skills as a motorcyclist were invaluable. “It’s an efficiency thing – the motorbike can get through crowded spaces quickly in a way that a car just cannot… it was more about being able to ride and connecting with people to give help and reassurance.”

Looking Ahead

Megan’s commitment is unwavering. “Yes, definitely. I’m cutting my Devon holiday short this year so I can be back in time to help!” She highlights what makes the Foulness Bike Ride so special: “This event is different. As the ride is on restricted land, it’s not somewhere you can usually go, so there is an element of excitement and intrigue!”