14-05-2025
Banton nurse set to take part in a global motorbike event
Kirsty Follett, from Banton, will participate in the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (DGR) on Sunday, May 18.
The event, which is in partnership with Movember, raises funds and awareness for men's health.
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Kirsty, a theatre nurse practitioner, will ride her Ducati Monster in the dapper-themed event to help spark conversations around prostate cancer and mental health.
She has first-hand experience supporting men undergoing tests for prostate cancer.
Kirsty, 55, said: "Because I'm at the sharp end of it, I can explain the procedure and tell them what it's all about.
"I always tell men coming through the hospital to share their experience with mates—it helps normalise the conversation."
This year, she will also ride in memory of her friend's son, who died by suicide.
She said: "It came out of the blue—no warning signs, no one was expecting it.
"We know what men are like—they don't communicate, whether it's about their physical or mental health."
Kirsty first joined the ride five years ago at the encouragement of a friend.
Back then, she borrowed a bike to blend in with the DGR's vintage theme.
Now, she owns her own classic bike and will be joined by two of her colleagues.
She said: "I'm looking forward to seeing everyone dressed in their finest.
"The motorbikes are stunning, and the people taking part are phenomenal."
The Glasgow ride is one of more than 1,000 taking place globally on May 18 as part of the 10th anniversary of the DGR x Movember partnership.
Since 2012, the collaboration has contributed to funding life-saving research, support services, and community programs tackling prostate cancer and men's mental health.
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Dan Cooper, Movember's director of innovation, said: "Ten years of partnership with DGR is a milestone worth celebrating.
"Every ride, every dollar, every story like Kirsty's helps fund life-saving research and spark meaningful conversations—helping men live longer, healthier lives."
Mark Hawwa, founder of DGR, said: "What began as a small ride in 64 cities has grown into a global movement across 1,000.
"Together with Movember, we've turned passion into purpose – funding life-changing research and programs for prostate cancer and men's mental health.
"We can't wait to see what the next 10 years brings."
