Who? Some may ask. Well, Fred was a dispatch rider during World War 2, during which time he never wore a helmet. Continuing to ride after the war, he felt betrayed when the UK Government, in 1973, instituted the compulsory helmet law; after all he had fought for freedom.

Protesting the law by refusing to wear one, he was arrested and ticketed time after time. He was sentenced to a total of 31 prison sentences, the last one being a death sentence as he died of a heart attack in London's notorious Pentonville prison while serving a two-month sentence for not wearing a helmet and refusing to pay the fines.

What did he accomplish?

He accomplished what most people can only dream of. He stood up for what he believed in despite the consequences. What higher aspirations could a person have? He didn't repeal the helmet law, but his courage was an inspiration to others to continue the fight, not just against helmets, but now a much wider range of issues concerning riders. Fred is the inspiration for many MAG activists who continue to remember his sacrifice.

Fred Hill was a biker. He and thousands like him around the world fight every day for what they believe in - Freedom.

The Phil Neale