Bike Enthusiast Raises Money For Mental Health In Suffolk

Local bike enthusiast Jack Taylor is restoring a 1974 Honda CB550 to raise awareness of mental health and support local charity, Inspire Suffolk.

Jack’s love of motorcycles started when he was just two years old, but it wasn’t until his 29^th birthday that he took the plunge and purchased his first project motorbike.

Jack shared his passion with close friend Harley Snowling who sadly passed in January last year.

He explains: “In 2020, I lost a close friend to suicide and it was tough, but the one thing that I kept coming back to was how positive Harley always was about my progress in building my bike. I’d look back at our messages and his comments on pictures and videos I posted on social media and it would make me smile.”

As a tribute to his friend, Jack decided to buy a tired-looking 1974 Honda CB550, similar to his own, and turn it into something Harley would be proud of.

Through fundraising and support from local businesses, Jack is securing parts and donations to fund the build, before raffling the bike off in aid of Inspire Suffolk later this year.

Jack says: “I’ve chosen to support Inspire Suffolk as this is the charity that Harley’s family support. I also believe the work they are doing to help local youths onto a positive path is an amazing cause and I hope to do anything I can to support them through this project and beyond.”

Once the bike is complete, Jack and Harley’s father, Harvey, will be taking it on tour around the county, as well as taking part in the world-renowned Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride to raise awareness of men’s mental health.

The support Jack has received so far from local businesses has been remarkable, and he hopes more will sign up as he continues to document the progress.

“There are many ways people can get involved with the project and help raise funds and awareness. I’m hoping some businesses will be able to offer help with services needed to complete the build. I plan to update every two weeks on the progress and talk about what I’ve done, who’s helped and where and what the money has been spent on.”

Terry Baxter, CEO of Inspire Suffolk, explains: “We can’t wait to watch Jack’s project unfold. Not only is it an incredible dedication to his friend, but we hope it will Inspire other young people to talk openly about their mental health and seek support. With Jack’s help, we will be able to help many more young people in the area through our wellbeing service and educational programmes.”

If you would like to support Jack, you can follow his journey on his Instagram account – @jack_taylormade – or make a donation at: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/BikeFunding

Inspire Suffolk offers a free wellbeing service for 10–25-year-olds. If you need someone to talk to and think you could benefit from free virtual counselling, please contact wellbeing@inspiresuffolk.org.uk or call/text 07720 087487.