enty-five years ago in Monte Cassino,” explains
Mike.
“We need to ensure that the sacrifices they
made, and the savage waste of human life, aren't
forgotten,” he went on to explain that he and riding
partner, Dick Whitehouse will place a commemorative
wreath on behalf of the Royal British Legion Riders at
the site of the battle.
Mike, who is a former television presenter, stuntman,
as well as scientist and mechanic, along with Dick, an
adventure traveller and riding a modern Royal Enfield
will leave Dunkirk on May 8th and promise they will do
everything in their power to attend a commemoration
ceremony and lay a wreath on behalf of the Royal British
Legion on Thursday 16th May.
“With luck the old BSA WM20 will return to the white
cliffs of Dover by May 27,” laughs Mike.
A 1943 ex British army BSA WM20 the bike could be
challenged. It is a 500cc side-valve bike which only
produces 13bhp, but weighs over 180 kilograms, and is
no faster than a step-through scooter. With a top speed
of only 50mph, 'girder forks' at the front, and no rear
suspension at all, Mike says “the trip is going to take a
long time!”
Mike's grandfather served with the Royal Army Sup-
port Corps at Monte Cassino, spending much time
escorting ambulance convoys with his recovery truck.
What he saw is said to have changed his life because
of the terrible things he experienced. He spoke about
Monte Cassino a lot, and had an affinity for the Italians,
so Mike wanted to see the place for himself.
“Raising money for charity was not the motivation
for this adventure,” admits Mike. “However, it would be
wrong not to use the exposure gained from the trip to
benefit others, so a Just Giving page has been launched
to donate to the Royal British Legion.”
Mike is confident he, Dick and the BSA will make it
to Monte Cassino and along the way highlight an im-
portant part of recent history. If you’d like to support
the adventure you can join the Facebook group Monte
Cassino 75thAnniversary or follow Mike on Twitter @Of-
ficialDrMike or Instagram Labratmike. You’ll find infor-
mation on how to donate to his Just Giving page.
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