09/05/2026
As many of you will know we have been proud supporters of Cornwall Blood Bikes for many years.
We were extremely saddened to hear of the passing of such a familiar face on Wednesday evening.
Tim was a familiar face at both CBB events and also our shows. Often arriving for operational duty on one of the eye catching bikes which are recognised on our cornish roads daily, Tim always attended with a smile and a kind word for all those who were lucky enough to meet him.
We would like to offer Timās family, headed by the wonderful Sylvia, who nursed time tirelessly at home until it was time to say goodbye our heartfelt condolences.
We would also like to say to the chair of CBB, Jayne Penlerick, who was also a very close friend of the family, we will continue to support the wonderful work you do on behalf of the people of Cornwall and in memory of such a wonderful man.
RIP Tim š your legacy lives on and we thank you for everything ā¤ļøxx
Statement on behalf of the Cornwall Blood Bike Charity from Chair; Jayne Penlerick.
It is with the heaviest of hearts that I share the devastating news that our dear friend and Vice Chair of the Charity, Tim Cookman passed away peacefully last evening with his beloved family by his side.
Tim was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2024 and, in true Tim fashion, he carried on supporting Cornwall Blood Bikes for as long as he possibly could; riding, helping, advising in all manner of ways and always being there.
A proud family man, a proud Cornishman and a proud Cornwall Blood Biker.
Tim had time for simply everyone. He was always the first to step forward to help in any situation. The most kind and generous-hearted man, with a no-nonsense approach when needed, but always with fairness, kindness, compassion and an incredible sense of humour along the way.
He shared the most special and treasured friendship with his best mate Ted, our Operations Manager.
There was a trio, or as they were known; Prouty, Timster and the Tedmeister.
Ian (Prouty) sadly passed away in April 2024 and remains deeply missed by everyone that knew him. Their bond was something many could only ever dream of, built on loyalty, laughter and unforgettable adventures, including their cherished Route 66 trip. We have all been privileged to witness that friendship through their time volunteering with Cornwall Blood Bikes.
Ted, we send you our biggest love and strength as you come to terms with such a devastating loss. Please know we are all here for you.
We send our deepest love, thoughts and condolences to his wife Sylvia, (also our Charity Treasurer and Trustee of the charity) and to Timās deeply cherished family; Ross and Natalie, Rachael and Tony, and his six wonderful grandchildren. He was so very proud of them all.
On behalf of the entire charity, I pay tribute to Tim for his dedication to 10 years of service to the people of Cornwall, committing himself fully to riding, coordinating, fundraising, being part of the pot possĆØ and CBB pasty rating panel, and fulfilling his Quartermaster role ensuring our kit was always looked after.
Tim in 2021 became the first ever full-time volunteer Operations Manager for the charity and with his past career experience, proved himself to be the perfect man for the job.
Tim had a true passion for motorbikes and road safety. He absolutely adored being an advanced RoSPA tutor and was a very proud member of both advanced riding organisations, RoSPA and the IAM. Many of our riders would not be where they are today without Timās training, guidance and belief in them.
His outstanding people skills, alongside his riding skills and ability, made him an exceptional charity check ride assessor. He always went above and beyond to ensure everyone achieved their goals, he never wanted to see anyone fail.
Tim was immensely proud of the support Cornwall Blood Bikes gave to our NHS and associated partners and was pivotal, alongside myself, in developing the collaborative working alongside Cornwall Air Ambulance and the Blood on Board project. He truly believed in what could be achieved when organisations worked together for the good of the people of Cornwall, and he took great pride in being part of something that has gone on to save lives.
In the last few years, he has been an unwavering support to me as my Vice Chair, and in turn to all of our committee and trustees.
Tim never did any of this for recognition or reward, he simply wanted to help others.
However, we must remember his incredible achievements over those ten years of which he was always very humbled; including being the winner of the Iron Butt Trophy in 2020. Riding an outstanding 19,348 miles during unprecedented times for the charity.
Tim was also the richly deserved winner of the Burt Reynolds Memorial Trophy for Volunteer of the Year in 2024.
For me personally, Tim, my heartfelt thank you will never ever be enough for what you have done for me, not just by being the Vice Chair, always steadfast with guidance, kindness and advice, but most of all for being my dear friend.
In my toughest times, he held me up when the going got tough. He stood by my side when I couldnāt see a way forward, encouraged me when I doubted myself, and helped me find clarity when I needed it most.
I truly believe people come into our lives for a reason, and Timās friendship has brought so much to mine and helped shape the person I am today.
The miles you have ridden serving the people of Cornwall and the lives you have touched will never be forgotten, and every time a bike goes out on āa ride with a purposeā - you will be remembered.
Tim fought his cancer battle with such dignity and courage to the very end, showing us all who this remarkable man was.
This is truly heartbreaking for us all, and I know so many of us will feel lost without him, and he will forever be engraved into our hearts and charity forever.
Rest in peace, Tim.
May the wind always be at your back as you travel the winding roads.
Ride safe, our dear friend, until we meet again ššļøš
