News / cycling

Bike shop robbed on Christmas Day

By Martin Booth  Tuesday Dec 26, 2023

A bike shop that was robbed on Christmas Day could go out of business without the support of Bristol’s cycling community.

Thieves targeted Bikemaker on West Street in Old Market sometime on December 25 stealing customers’ bikes as well as other items.

A crowdfunder has now been set up to support owner Russell Hadley, 53, who opened the shop in 2012.

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Russell Hadley opened Bikemaker in July 2012 – photo: Russell Hadley

The crowdfunder was started by Russell’s family, who he was celebrating Christmas with when the robbery happened.

Bikes and equipment worth thousands of pounds were taken by the thieves, with Russell having to pay for customers’ bikes himself as they were not insured.

Russell’s son, Kane Clifton-Hadley, told Bristol24/7: “As a family we have set up a GoFundMe to help get my dad back on his feet as this is a bankrupting blow to his business…

“We are hoping we can make use of the Christmas spirit, spread the word of what has happened and hopefully encourage others to help if they can.”

To donate to the crowdfunder, visit www.gofundme.com/f/russells-bike-shop-burglary

Main photo: Bikemaker

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