Joe:
Hello everyone! Back to school and back to the real world unfortunately, which means dark nights are a coming! This week I’m introducing another member of my sales team, David Spoors, or ‘Young David’ as he is to us. He’s going to tell you about how his constant search for thrills also helps him at work.
David:
From three years old, when my dad pushed me down a hill on a bike without stabilisers, I’ve been a bit of an adrenalin junkie! Unlike the rest of the staff at M. Steels, I’m not interested in riding roads, but prefer mountain bikes and BMX’s. I’d rather spend hours trying to perfect a difficult trick. Because I’m a bit of a thrill-seeker I’ve already tried my hand at motorbikes, go-karts and quad bikes- and I’m only 18! I also spent years playing ice hockey and ice-skating, but my new love is my car. With that as my priority, I’ve spent a lot more time- and money- on four wheels rather than two recently!
David Spoors Loves His Car!
I do appreciate a leisurely afternoon on a bike though and sometimes I’ll drag a mate to Kielder or Plessy Woods. I would recommend Kielder to anyone looking for somewhere to ride, as it’s purpose-built for bikes and has both red and black tracks. Plessy Woods is a completely untapped resource; my mate and I were cycling for two hours before we passed another person.
While we were there we learned a valuable lesson about safety though. On one excursion, my mate wasn’t wearing a helmet and fell off his bike. He ended up with concussion, not to mention damaging my dad’s bike. I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to wear helmets; it would be my number one recommendation to customers. Also in the winter months, making sure you’re well-lit whilst cycling in the dark is essential, as drivers don’t pay enough attention to riders. We can help you with both products in-store, to make sure you’re kitted out safely.
I’ve worked part-time in M. Steels’ sales department for about a year and a half and have recently been moved to full-time, which I’m thrilled about. I love my job and get to meet loads of different people. Also, because we’re on the sales team, we have to have the most up to date information about our products. We therefore get to ride the test bikes, some of which cost in excess of £3,000! This is a massive bonus for me, but more importantly, I can recommend products whole-heartedly and I know what I’m talking about. You can read up about a product as much as possible but your proper knowledge is gained through testing it out.
Joe has also helped me move on with the next step in my career too. I have passed my interviews and exams to enter the fire-service, which Joe has supported completely. He’s given me any time off I’ve needed and has encouraged me every step of the way, and I’m so grateful to him. While I’m waiting for a vacancy I’m lucky to work where I am, and will definitely put the odd shift in after I’ve entered the service!
Joe: What other career could there be for adventurous Young David? We’re very proud and supportive of him. He also brings up an excellent point about the importance of safety when you’re out and about. With exciting vehicles you’ve got to take the right precautions and we’re happy to give you advice on how to keep safe.
Remember, we welcome everyone in our store, amateur and professional cyclists, and new and established fitness enthusiasts, and are always here if you need someone to talk to about your bike or cycling activities. Visit the shop at 6-10 Bowsden Terrace, South Gosforth, NE3 1RX, or give us a call on (0191) 285 1251.
Until next time, happy riding! Joe Waugh.