Cornwall Blood Bikes lead emotional funeral procession for devoted vice chair

Cornwall Blood Bikes paid a heartfelt tribute to their vice chair during his funeral procession this week.

Last month, the Packet reported that the Cornish charity had announced the death of its vice chair Ian Prout.

At the time, Jayne Penlerick shared a touching tribute to Ian, who was described as a ‘tower of strength’ for charity members, and people in the community.

Ian Prout, vice chair of Cornwall Blood Bikes passed away in April (Image: Cornwall Blood Bikes)

The post said: “On behalf of the entire charity, we pay tribute to Ian for his dedication for over seven years, committing himself to advanced riding, co-ordinating, taking our NHS calls and dispatching riders, fundraising, attending talks and raising awareness of what we do.

“Ian also managed our Blood Bike fleet cameras to ensure they were updated alongside looking after other technology including filming the launch of our ‘Blood on Board’ Bike; BMW 1 ‘Henry John Surtees’.

“A sounding board, a friend, a confidant, who believed passionately in our charity, and championed our professionalism, always acting in the very best interests of the charity.

“Rest In Peace Ian and may the wind always be at your back as you travel the winding roads. Ride safe our dear friend until we meet again.”

In a very touching and fitting tribute to Ian on the day of his funeral, a fleet of Cornwall Blood Bikes escorted the hearse carrying his coffin to Treswithian Downs Crematorium.

An emotional post shared on the Cornwall Blood Bikes Facebook page said that it was the ‘ultimate honour’ to escort Ian and his family on his final journey.

The post reads: “This morning we join together with Ian’s family and friends to say our goodbyes to a wonderful husband, father and dear friend who will be missed by all who knew him.

“Our entire fleet of Cornwall Blood Bikes will have the ultimate honour of paying our respects to our Vice Chair and escorting Ian and his much-loved family on the roads of Cornwall on their final journey.”

Ian's funeral took place on Wednesday, May 8 with a retiring collection for the Cornwall Blood Bikes. To donate, visit https://cornwallbloodbikes.org/donate/.