Bikers have launched a campaign in Poole to boost awareness of child abuse, the Daily Echo reported on Friday.
Members of Bikers Raising Awareness Against Child Abuse UK from as far away as Wales, Oxford and Salisbury made a trip to the quayside to demonstrate their support for the initiative.
The founder of the organisation, motorcyclist Paul Eason, explained that he was abused between the ages of eight and 14 and this abuse had a massive impact on his life. In fact, he says, it destroyed his life. Eason said that he is now 39 years old and is finally getting help to deal with it. He added that the abuse had a negative impact on his school grades and exams and years later on his relationships.
At the age of 27 Eason lost a leg in an accident and he now rides a trike. Today he wants to do everything in his power to help others who have been abused as kids feel strong enough to report the abuse and start rebuilding their lives. He said that he hopes more people will speak out about this life-ruining issue following recent high-profile cases.
Currently, there are 750 members of Bikers Raising Awareness Against Child Abuse, with supporters across the entire country. Eason explained that events will take place in each region, with members of the association organising bike meetings and fundraising runs. All the money will go to charities and organisations helping those who have suffered from child abuse.