Bikers in hospital drug runs

Taxis used to deliver medical supplies to hospitals in Worcestershire during the night are being replaced by motorcycle volunteers.Patients at Kidderminster Hospital will be among those to benefit from a free out-of-hours courier service provided by Severn Freewheelers.

The voluntary group will take to the road between the three sites run by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust to transport equipment, samples and clinical information.

It is hoped Severn Freewheelers, who will carry blue lights for emergency calls, will provide a faster and more efficient service.

Money will also be saved on taxi fares as the trust only runs a courier service between Kidderminster, Redditch and Worcester during normal working hours meaning staff have been forced to book taxis to deliver supplies out-of-hours.

Howard Martin, pictured, leader of Independent Health Concern on Wyre Forest District Council said today welcomed the "good idea."

" If they are providing an out-of-hours service and filling a gap in what's available, then they are to be commended."

Rob Davies, chairman of the Severn Freewheelers, said: "All our riders are volunteers and must have an advanced riding qualification. In short, a professional team delivering a professional service."

The group is always looking for more volunteers to either ride, dispatch or provide help with fundraising. To find out more, log on to the website www.severnfreewheelers.co.uk