Custom motorcycle builder Ivan Counsell faced every craftsman’s nightmare when a sudden fire engulfed his workshop and collection in Haw Bridge, Gloucestershire. The blaze, believed to have been sparked by an electrical fault, destroyed an estimated £80,000 worth of tools, equipment, and uniquely handcrafted motorcycles accumulated over five decades.
At 65, Ivan narrowly escaped the inferno, recalling the terrifying moments vividly: “Another thirty seconds and I would have been Sunday roast. I was just choking. I don’t think I’ve been that frightened ever. It went up in flames within seconds, and there was nothing I could do.”
His workshop housed not only countless tools and sheds but also a rare collection of custom, vintage bikes described as “unusual, quirky and a bit radical.” These creations had even been featured on television and in magazines, reflecting the depth of Ivan’s passion and skill.
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Despite the loss, Ivan remains resolute. “It’s stuff gathered over a very long period of time. But in my mind, I’ve just got no choice: either fall to pieces or start all over again. The enthusiasm is still there.” Showing remarkable resilience, he has already begun restoring a motorcycle frame salvaged from the wreckage, aiming to showcase it at upcoming events.
The local motorbike community has rallied behind Ivan, providing tools, support, and motivation. A GoFundMe campaign created by a neighbor has raised over £1,190 of a £2,800 target to help replace lost equipment and rebuild his workshop.
The neighbor expressed, “These weren’t just possessions; they were the result of a lifetime of hard work, passion, and dedication. Ivan has always been the first to lend a hand and share his skills without expecting anything in return. His love for custom motorcycles isn’t just a hobby—it’s who he is.”
Though the road ahead is challenging, Ivan’s determination and the community’s support fuel his drive to bring his passion back to life, proving that even after devastating loss, rebuilding is possible.