WHAT started as a bike ride for the victim of a callous bashing turned into a public demonstration yesterday of more than 500 cyclists and walkers.
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People from all walks of life started fi ling into QEII Square from 5pm, half an hour before the scheduled ride for Kris Mandeville.
Mr Mandeville remains in hospital with serious injuries after the assault last weekend.
The ride began down Dean Street for a short cycle to the tax offi ce car park where Mr Mandeville traded at the Rotary Market as Resurrection Cycles.
Riders received many glances and some applause as they continued up Hume Street, then back to QEII Square for a short prayer and an update on his condition from family.
Ride organiser and friend Mark Riddell was overwhelmed by the turnout.
“This is all for Kris, we are making a video with everyone wishing him well,” he said.
“He will see this in his bed in Melbourne and we are hoping this will lift his spirit and bring a smile to his mouth.”
The park was crawling with not only bikes, but with mobility scooters, people with their dogs, mothers with prams, children on scooters and people who wanted to take part by walking.
There was even a part of Mr Mandeville at the ride in the form of his dog.
Friend Anna Houston offered to look after his pet and brought her along.
“She is part of Kris and I thought she needed to be here,” she said.
Speaking affectionately about Mr Mandeville was neighbour for the past five years, Sharyn Melzer.
“He is a lovely man, always very patient,” she said.
Mr Mandeville is teaching Ms Melzer to ride her bike again as it has been 45 years since she last jumped on a bicycle.
“He was so concerned for me that he went out and bought me what he thought was the safest helmet on the market, because that’s the kind of guy he is,” she said.
After the ride, residents were encouraged to leave messages for Mr Mandeville on a video recorder.
A book was also going around for people to write messages of support.
The book can be signed at Murray Energy in the Myer City Centre.
