DISABLED riders have been back in the saddle thanks to a special event at RAF Odiham.

Seven riders, who have suffered life-changing injuries, took advantage of the opportunity, organised by a charity called the Bike Experience. The group is run entirely by volunteer motorcycle enthusiasts, and relies on private donations.

The driving force behind the project is Talan Skeels-Piggins, a Paralympian who suffered a horrific accident in 2003. The crash left him paralysed from the mid-chest down.

He set up the charity in 2011 with the aim of helping men and women with disabilities get back on motorbikes again.

Senior instructor Rob Kuschel said: “Most of our riders have disabilities that prevent them from ever returning to the road, so our emphasis is on track riding, with many of our riders going on to take up track days or even racing.

“In 2015 we helped 54 new riders learn to ride again with our fleet of specially adapted motorcycles. We are set improve on that figure this year with events already fully booked halfway through the season.

“We cater for people with any disability and encourage everyone to come along to meet us, even if they think they won’t be able to ride again, to see what is possible.”

Sandra, an experienced motorbike rider, got back on a bike at Odiham for the first time since being paralysed only one year ago. She first visited one of the events last year while still in recovery – more in hope than expectation.

But this year she overcame her fears. She returned and managed to achieve what she had thought would be impossible.

Mr Kuschel also highlighted a rider named Simon, who had not ridden a motorbike for 26 years, after a spinal injury left him paralysed. He too got back in the saddle for first time just last month.

Ben Kuschel, Rob’s brother, learnt to ride a motorbike for the very first time on Sunday. Ben is learning to live with a serious brain injury caused by a car accident that nearly took his life two years ago.

The Bike Experience aims to develop a positive mental attitude among riders, and help to rebuild their confidence. Their events are free to riders. Able-bodied bikers are encouraged to join in.

Later this year they plan to hold similar events at Donnington Park as well as Odiham. To book, visit tbex.co.uk.