Neil Hamilton AM gets on his bike

NEIL Hamilton, AM for Mid & West Wales and UKIP Leader in Wales, got on his bike to highlight the approach of Remembrance Day 2019.

Mr Hamilton joined fellow Assembly Members and staff in taking up the challenge of riding as far as possible in three-minutes, competing against each other for the honour of winning a prestigious Legion yellow jersey.

The annual ride, now in its fourth year, aims to raise awareness of the work of the Legion and the issues of the Armed Forces community in a unique setting. Throughout the event Legion staff were on hand to talk to participants about the unseen sacrifices made by the Armed Forces community, in Wales and beyond, every day.

Mr Hamilton said:

“Each day our Armed Forces provide an incredible service to our country, often in ways we don’t necessarily see, but all of which impact our lives. It was thought-provoking to hear some of the stories of how the Legion is helping the Armed Forces community and I look forward to working with them to support this inspirational group of people in the future.”

“I was delighted to be able to contribute in a small way to this very worthwhile event. The Remembrance period is a very important time in the Welsh calendar and fully deserves all our support.

“It is also important to understand that by wearing a poppy, you are not only remembering the fallen, but also helping a new generation of veterans and Service personnel, who need our support.

“Remembrance is crucial and it was heart-warming to see so many people getting on the bikes to raise awareness of this time of reflection and gratitude when we honour the sacrifices made by our Armed Forces so many years ago.”

AMs were joined by the Legion’s Area Manager for Wales Ant Metcalfe, Legion staff from across Wales and were supported by students from the local Military Preparation College for Training. Pure Gym Cardiff, once again generously supported the event by providing the static bikes.

Ant Metcalfe, Wales Area Manager for the Royal British Legion said: “The Poppy Ride has become a popular event in the Assembly calendar, with the friendly competitive nature of Assembly Members coming to the fore. It provides us with a great platform to talking to the AM’s and their staff about the needs of the Armed Forces and the veteran community and the work of the Legion in Wales in a relaxed and informal setting. I would like to extend my thanks to every person who came along today.”