2026 Bike4Life Ride Out VIP flag bearer announced

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity has revealed the VIP flag-bearer for its 2026 Bike4Life Ride Out. Six-year-old Teddie Goddard will officially wave off this year’s event, which sets off from Meole Brace Park & Ride in Shrewsbury this May.

The Bike4Life Ride Out and Festival is taking place on Sunday 17th May, with a convoy of up to 3,500 motorbikes travelling along the M54. Teddie, from Pershore, Worcestershire, will proudly start the Ride Out as thousands of bikers gather in support of the charity’s lifesaving work.

Despite his young age, Teddie is already an enthusiastic supporter of the charity. Inspired by regularly seeing Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s red helicopters flying over his home, Teddie decided he wanted to help support the charity’s vital work.

His determination grew even stronger after attending Countrytastic at the Three Counties Showground, where he witnessed two of the charity’s helicopters land at a nearby farm following a tragic accident. Deeply moved by what he saw, Teddie was inspired to act. He has already raised more than £1,200 for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and is aiming to raise even more this year.

Chris Brooke, critical care paramedic for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “It was great to meet Teddie at our Cosford airbase. We are always incredibly grateful for the support we receive and it’s especially inspiring to see young people like Teddie getting involved. We’re delighted he’ll be waving the flag at this year’s Bike4Life event.”

Lizzie Goddard, Teddie’s mum, said: “We are delighted that the charity has given Teddie the opportunity to wave the flag at Bike4Life, on his birthday weekend too. As a family, we greatly admire the work of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. Teddie was so excited to meet the crew and learn more about what happens on a mission. His dream now is to work for the charity one day.”

Emma Wood, head of fundraising and engagement for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, added: “Each year, we receive incredible support from the biking community through our Bike4Life event, who raise significant funds to help us continue delivering advanced pre-hospital emergency care to patients across the region.”

The Bike4Life Ride Out is delivered in collaboration with West Mercia Police and National Highways. Alongside raising vital funds, the event promotes biker safety and highlights the importance of responsible riding.

Book your Ride Out and Festival tickets here: bike4lifefest.com