Jean-Claude Lionbeat is a pillar of London community.

You might have seen him riding around on his e-cargo bike – the BASSISbike – playing out killer tunes on this decarbonised, battery-powered soundsystem, turning public spaces into cultural spaces. His bike was stolen during an incredible evening at the South East Salon, a community event he co-runs at the Hill Station Cafe.

He's gutted and we're all gutted for him.

We're setting up this crowd funder because doing community work at the level Jean-Claude does costs time, money and energy, and he has contributed more than most. His bike being nicked is a huge blow on every level and we want to see if we can help help raise some money towards replacing it.

His intention this summer was to do some fundraising for a power pack, that could be used for other people's sound systems. If we raise enough money to get a second-hand bike then any extra will go towards power supply.

Jean-Claude is a connector and a convener and a top guy. He's given a lot, for many years. He has been central in bringing together key figures from London's black cycling community, works with youth and community organisations, and amplifies bass culture on the ground and by tirelessly creating partnerships between communities, universities and cultural institutions.

A load of us have been on the look-out for the bike, but we've had no joy. You might also be wondering about insurance. It was insured until the insurer unilaterally withdrew cover, after over two years of taking a three-figure premium each month. It being stolen is an injury against not just the owner, but a whole community who rely on it.

One small detail is that the next South East Salon on May 13 was already scheduled to focus on 'keeping London loud' and the value of volume and music in public space. It was already going to feature Jean-Claude and his BASSIS bike. Help us bring the noise, to the Salon and across the city, by helping get this soundsystem back on the road.