When motorbike enthusiast Andy McGowan’s wife Sarah, a deputy sister, was admitted to Colchester Hospital’s critical care unit, he was so impressed with the staff’s dedication and kindness that he decided to raise funds for the hospital.

Andy, who is a member of United Lodge No. 697, which meets in Colchester, set out on a 24-hour sponsored motorbike ride around  Great Britain, starting at the hospital and touring Edinburgh, Glasgow, Bristol and London, before returning to Essex.

Andy, a keen motorcyclist, and member of the newly formed Artificers Masonic Motorcycle Association (AMMA), completed the journey on his beloved Triumph Speedster.

‘The staff were wonderful and I’m so grateful that my wife is well now. The money will be used to improve the facilities for patients and their relatives,’ said Andy of his achievement.