Motorbikes conjure up images of leather jackets and tough guys. Most bikers are seen as speed demons rather than God-fearing folk. But religious motorcyclists have formed their own group so they can spread the Christian message.
Peter Crane, aged 40, who lives on the Saffron Lane estate in Leicester, is the chairman of the East Midlands branch of the Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA). Mr Crane, who works as a lorry driver, says the group has about 40 members. They hold a prayer meeting once a month at All Saints Parish Church in Thorpe Acre Road, Loughborough.
 | | Peter gives Jess a ride in his sidecar |
They also attend bikers’ rallies to encourage more motorcyclists to discover their faith. Mr Crane, who has been passionate about motorbikes since he was a teenager, says he became a Christian nearly 20 years ago because of the CMA. He said: “They were there for me when my life was in crisis.” Mr Crane says the group also brought him closer to the woman who was to become his wife, 38-year-old Jennie, who does voluntary work for a homeless charity. He says he loves being able to combine his faith with his passion for motorbikes. Mr Crane said: “Motorbikes give you a great sense of freedom – far more so than a car, which is just like riding around in a box. “When you’re on a motorbike you completely experience your surroundings. “I can smell newly mown grass as I go past gardens and even detect the waft of women’s perfumes as I ride down the high street." | 
