Cornwall, England – The Cornwall community and members of Cornwall Blood Bikes are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Vice Chair Tim Cookman, who passed away peacefully surrounded by his beloved family after a courageous battle with stomach cancer.
The devastating news was confirmed in an emotional statement released on behalf of the charity by Chair Jayne Penlerick, who paid tribute to Tim’s extraordinary dedication, compassion, and service to the people of Cornwall.
According to the statement, Tim Cookman was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2024. Despite his illness, he continued supporting Cornwall Blood Bikes for as long as possible, remaining active in riding, coordinating, fundraising, advising, and helping fellow volunteers throughout his treatment.
A Life Dedicated to Helping Others
Tim Cookman became widely respected throughout Cornwall for his years of voluntary service and unwavering commitment to helping people in need. Over a decade of service with Cornwall Blood Bikes, he became one of the charity’s most recognizable and admired members.
The charity described him as a proud family man, proud Cornishman, and deeply committed blood biker who always made time for everyone around him.
Friends and colleagues remembered him as kind-hearted, generous, dependable, and full of humor. At the same time, he was known for his practical and fair-minded approach whenever leadership was needed.
Major Role in Cornwall Blood Bikes
Throughout his ten years with Cornwall Blood Bikes, Tim held multiple important responsibilities within the organization. In 2021, he became the charity’s first full-time volunteer Operations Manager, a role in which he reportedly excelled thanks to his previous professional experience and leadership skills.
He also contributed heavily to fundraising efforts, volunteer coordination, rider training, equipment management, and community outreach.
According to the statement, Tim played a vital role in helping strengthen collaboration between Cornwall Blood Bikes and Cornwall Air Ambulance through projects such as Blood on Board, initiatives designed to improve emergency medical support and save lives throughout the region.
Passion for Motorbikes and Road Safety
Tim Cookman was deeply passionate about motorcycling and advanced riding safety. He was an advanced RoSPA tutor and proudly involved with advanced riding organizations including RoSPA and IAM RoadSmart.
Many riders within the charity reportedly benefited from his mentorship, guidance, and encouragement. Fellow volunteers described him as someone who genuinely wanted others to succeed and never wanted to see anyone fail.
His riding expertise and calm leadership also made him highly respected as a charity check ride assessor.
Friendship and Brotherhood
The emotional tribute also reflected on Tim’s close friendship with fellow volunteers Ted and Ian “Prouty.” The trio reportedly shared a bond known throughout the charity community, built through years of volunteering, adventures, humor, and loyalty.
Ian sadly passed away in April 2024, making Tim’s death another devastating loss for the Cornwall Blood Bikes family.
Chair Jayne Penlerick described Tim not only as a trusted Vice Chair but also as a personal friend who provided guidance, support, and encouragement during difficult moments.
Awards and Recognition
Although described as humble and uninterested in recognition, Tim Cookman earned admiration throughout the charity for his extraordinary service.
Among his achievements, he won the Iron Butt Trophy in 2020 after riding an impressive 19,348 miles supporting the charity during exceptionally difficult periods.
He was also awarded the Burt Reynolds Memorial Trophy for Volunteer of the Year in 2024 in recognition of his dedication and impact.
Community Mourning
Following news of his passing, tributes and condolences have continued pouring in for Tim Cookman, with many remembering him as a remarkable volunteer, mentor, friend, and family man.
The statement emphasized that his influence on Cornwall Blood Bikes and the wider Cornwall community will never be forgotten. Every future “ride with a purpose” carried out by the charity will serve as a reminder of his dedication and service.
Remembering Tim Cookman
Tim Cookman’s legacy extends far beyond motorbikes and charity work. He is being remembered as someone who devoted his life to helping others, supporting his community, and uplifting those around him with kindness and compassion.
As Cornwall mourns his loss, many are reflecting on the lives he touched through years of volunteer service and friendship.
Rest in peace, Tim Cookman.