Jimmy Read Memorial Bike Race2026

Running since 1988, the race was created to celebrate the life of Hastings Fisherman, Jimmy Read, who was killed in the great storm of 1987. The event takes place on Crown Lane which is the Old Town’s steepest road and sees entrants attempting to cycle up the lane as quickly as possible on Jimmy’s original butcher’s bike without losing contact with the saddle … just like Jimmy did with a friend many years earlier (for a modest wager after a few drinks in the Crown Pub). We provide the bike - and you provide the muscle! Just come along, donate and have a go. It’s certainly not easy but you will have great fun trying and will be supporting local causes by doing so - please bring along some cash and give as generously as you are able to the collectors throughout the evening. It is not advisable to bring dogs to this event but children are very welcome under the supervision of adults. Charge for event: A donation by each entrant and collection buckets This year, you’ll be able to see and ride Jimmy’s butcher’s bike looking and running in tip top condition after it was totally refurbished by the BBC’s Repair Shop team.