Clones gearing up for annual Bikers’ Memorial Mass
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Some of the attendance on a sunny evening in Clones before the Gone But Not Forgotten Bikers' Memorial Mass.Image 2 of 3
The late Fr John Kearns, the ‘Biker Priest’.Image 3 of 3
Recently retired, Revd. Ian Cruickshank, the 'Biker Revenend', at last year's interdenominational service in Clones.Around a thousand people are expected to travel to Clones for the annual Bikers' Memorial Mass to honour their loved ones. The service, which is open to all religions and none, will take place this evening, Friday, May 15 at 8pm in the Sacred Heart Church.
Organised by the Gone But Not Forgotten Bikers’ Memorial Committee, this is the 22nd year of the service, which allows bikers and family members to stand together in remembering and celebrating the lives of those sadly lost to road traffic collisions.
Committee member, Aaron Corley from Clones, who is a local businessman and retained firefighter, makes time to stay involved in the respectful service of remembrance: “It’s wonderful to be part of the biking community. It is welcoming of everyone, no matter what your background. The way bikers support the families of those who have lost a loved one is second to none.”
Joint treasurer of the voluntary committee, Fermanagh man, Jason Marshall, explains that the committee’s long-standing aim is to offer comfort and support to bereaved families. The numbers in attendance are a reminder that: “Bikers don’t forget their friends who’ve sadly lost their lives on the road. The fact that families can meet others going through the same devastating grief, and those who rode with their loved one is hugely important, helpful and even positive for all involved.”
Committee member Kevin Boylan recommends that everyone who intends travelling for the interdenominational service should come early: “The atmosphere around Clones town from early morning is fantastic. People should allow themselves the extra time to enjoy it and the usual warm welcome from the people of Clones."
As is now tradition, parking outside the church will be reserved for motorbikes only, which adds to the visual spectacle of this unique occasion that means so much to the close-knit biking community.
Car parking for those arriving on four wheels will be signposted and, in the case of mobility issues, cars will be allowed to park on church grounds.