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Dad's Viking Quest After Son's Death Fuels Charity
2 Jun
Summary
- A grieving father dresses as a Viking to raise funds for brain tumour research.
- The Biking Vikings have raised over £80,000 since 2019 for charity.
- The group performs music and shares stories at regional events to honor a son.
When Terry Forster lost his son Adam to a brain tumour, he embarked on a unique fundraising journey. Seven years ago, Forster began travelling across the North East and Cumbria as a Viking, accompanied by friends, to raise money for vital research. This initiative, known as The Biking Vikings North East, has successfully generated more than £80,000 for the charity Brain Tumour Research.
Forster's son, Adam, passed away in May 2014, just 11 months after his glioblastoma diagnosis. Initially, Terry aimed to raise £50,000, starting with a solo attempt to walk on stilts while playing bagpipes. The Viking costume, initially conceived to cover the stilts, became the group's signature. Now, the band of motorcycle riders and musicians performs at various events, including the Northumberland County Show and Skelton Show.
Beyond their energetic performances, the group engages audiences by allowing them to try the drums, with all fees and donations directly benefiting Brain Tumour Research. Terry Forster's daughter and granddaughters also contribute through additional fundraising activities. Their collective ambition is to reach £100,000, ensuring Adam's memory endures and offering hope to families facing similar struggles.
