A former Manx Grand Prix competitor who is now confined to a wheelchair is hoping to complete a lap of the course to raise money for charity during this year’s event.
Former fireman George Ridgeon from Gloucester was injured in a firefighting accident in 1981 bringing to an end a 10 year stint of competing in the Manx.
Despite this, his enthusiasm for the Isle of Man and the racing remain undiminished and though he can no longer ride, his plan is to travel pillion around the course raising money for Manx charities - racing and otherwise.
‘I spoke to Mick Grant at the Festival of 1,000 bikes at Mallory Park and he agreed to take me round but I need to find someone kind enough to loan us a suitable bike,’ he said.
Ideally the bike needs to be a large comfortable touring bike with some sort of back support behind the pillion such as a removable top box which will allow him to be lifted on before being placed behind him.
In fact it won’t be George’s first charity lap of the course - his first was in 1983 just two years after his accident - when Mick Grant also did the honours - raising £800 for charity.
He wants visitors to guess his lap time in exchange for a donation and he’s hoping some Manx businesses might offer prizes for the most accurate suggestions. Anyone able to loan a bike or offer other support should contact Mr Ridgeon via Isle of Man Newspapers. Ring 695637.