Our Trustees

Chair Russell Roe

Devon Freewheelers Chief Executive Officer

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Russell has been involved with the charity since its inception in 2009, after learning about the blood bikes service from Devon Freewheelers’ founder Daniel Roe-Lavery.

He volunteered for nine years as a fundraiser and fleet manager, then helped with administration in the charity’s office.

Russell was appointed as Deputy CEO in July 2020, when the charity’s founder Daniel stepped away to concentrate on new ventures.

Russell, who is disabled, promotes inclusivity and diversity within the charity, to ensure there is no bias or barrier to becoming a Devon Freewheeler volunteer.

The charity upgraded its fleet in 2020 to include a specialist machine known as a Can-Am, which can be used by disabled people who volunteer for us, to transport and courier samples.

Russell said: “In my role as a trustee I will strive to grow the charity so we can help even more people across the South West, while saving the NHS money.

“I have always been proud to be involved with the Devon Freewheelers because the charity is community-minded and helps wherever it can, and for free.

“Over the years I have watched it grow from one blood biker to our loyal team of volunteers today, who are all so passionate about the charity.

“My aim as CEO is to continue to build on the success of the charity, safeguarding it for the future though financial stability and development, while working alongside like-minded organisations to promote the work it does within the community.”

Trustee Paul Richards

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Garage owner and mechanic Paul, has maintained the Devon Freewheelers’ vehicles for many years

He goes the extra mile for the charity whenever he can; during the first Covid-19 lockdown, Paul created a micro-flat in his Honiton-based garage, staying onsite 24-hours a day to help Devon Freewheelers’ volunteers continue operating through the pandemic - keeping the charity’s vehicles on the road.

He said: “The Devon Freewheelers is a really good cause that does wonderful work.
“The charity is so important because through the blood bikes, the volunteers help save lives.

“By being a trustee, I will help wherever I can to ensure the smooth running of the charity so it can continue with its good work.”

 

 

 

Trustee James Robinson
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James has been volunteering with the Devon Freewheelers for more than three years.

When he’s not at work in his day-to-day role as a serving Royal Marine Sergeant Major, James is a blood biker for the charity.

He actively promotes the Devon Freewheelers through fundraising opportunities within the community and business sector, while raising awareness of the charity’s free courier service.

James said: “As a trustee, my goal will be to help steer the Devon Freewheelers emergency voluntary service in a positive direction, promoting the free service, and ensuring the charity goes from strength-to-strength.

“I have been involved with the Devon Freewheelers charity for more than three years.

“I became involved with the charity because I am able to combine my two passions – I love riding bikes and I wanted to help the community.

“Being a Devon Freewheelers’ volunteer means I can make a difference by helping others.”

 

Trustee Wendy Charnock

 

It was such an honour to be asked to become a trustee of the Devon freewheelers

Having worked in the NHS for over 45 years I can appreciate how much the charity saves the NHS and what the team of volunteers give up,and I felt I wanted to give something back to the community.

Devon freewheelers is more the a service it is a family who works tirelessly to fundraise constantly to provide an exceptional service throughout the county.

 

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