The recent launch at Wigan Kawasaki of the new 2011 range of Kawasaki motorcycles was an appropriate start to the riding season for hundreds of bikers in the Wigan and Greater Manchester area.
Adding to the excitement of seeing the new cutting edge Ninja ZX-10R superbike and four other models from the popular Japanese manufacturer, the crowd also contributed enthusiastically to a raffle drawn on the night in aid of the Help for Heroes charity.
Inspired by the fund raising round Britain motorcycle ride already undertaken by team of Steve Murtagh and Steve Dalton, the raffle of a pair of hospitality tickets as guests of the MSS Colchester Kawasaki team at a British Superbike event, raised the considerable sum of £1730.
Having already raised £8400 from the charity ride, Dalton, who has served 27 years in the RAF, and ex-policeman Murtagh now see their efforts top the £10,000 mark – a sum especially satisfying for Steve Dalton whose son, Lee, is currently serving in as a combat medic technician in 5 Medical Regiment having competed two front line tours in Afghanistan.
Joined on the night by Macclesfield Town striker, Simon Yeo in his role as local Help for Heroes ambassador, the Wigan Kawasaki staff and Kawasaki Sales Manager for the region, Craig Watson, saw the event as a double success as Watson explained.
“As a springboard for five new 2011 season models, the Wigan Kawasaki event represented a great start to the biking season. It’s testament to the enthusiasm for the Kawasaki brand and the generous nature of motorcyclists that over £1700 was raised on the night for such a worthwhile cause.”