Lorraine’s Speed Indicator Device (SID) Appeal.

Lorraine, just 57 years old, my wife, my life partner, quite simply my one was killed outside our home on the 17th of September 2020 whilst riding her bicycle home from work just 3 days after our 35th wedding anniversary. I certainly won the marriage lottery when she agreed to marry me. She is the mother of our two children and devoted nanny to our grandson. She was a very private, kind person always willing to help with a strong social conscience. She did not like violence or speed.

Lorraine rode her bicycle everywhere – Wedmore, Mark, Weare, Highbridge and for some 13 years, she would say nigh-on 13 years, the mile journey to and from Hugh Sexey CofE Middle School. She loved her job and riding her bike always saying that the cycle home was her down time. She would never entertain getting on her bicycle without her helmet with rear facing light, cycling jacket with fluorescent piping, and most importantly her high visibility vest.

The results of the police investigation are still unknown to us although we are aware that amongst other things the driver was driving her vehicle at a speed considerably over the speed limit. Excessive speed was an issue.

In her memory and in the hope that it will make a difference to the local community and all those that use the B3139 for the school run I am asking for donations to enable me to fund two SID’s. These SID’s are to be purchased via the parish council as they are the body recognised by the Highways department. Mark Parish council have no budget for more SID’s.

To have an effect as soon as possible I propose two phases. Phase 1 the purchase of two portable SID’s powered by rechargeable batteries. Phase 2 the conversion of the power source to solar panels. This will be a long-winded process as it will involve the location and installation of new posts. Phase 1 will have an immediate effect as the SID’s will be installed on existing posts. Phase 2 will allow the SID’s be located on a more permanent basis and use an eco-friendly power source.

Our project target is £4900.00, if you are able to please donate whatever you can, if you are unable to donate please support us by sharing this fundraising page. Thank you for any donation, or page share.

The police during September and October 2021 installed a SID on a trial basis. There is no doubt in my mind that they do make a difference. Statistics gathered by the SID confirm my opinion. Once the SID’s have been installed it is my intension to publish the statistics recorded on a regular basis.

The family hope that you think this is a worthwhile cause believing that it just might help stop another family having to go through the nightmare we are living.

Thank you for taking the time to read this

The Barrow family up on the hill.