Who is the biker in the voltarol advert

Who Is the Biker in the Voltarol Advert?

The Voltarol advertisement featuring an elderly motorcyclist has proved one of the more memorable UK pain-relief ads in recent years. The commercial shows an older gentleman enjoying an active ride on a classic motorcycle and sidecar, with the message that pain needn’t stop you living life to the fullest. Understandably, it has left many viewers asking: who is the biker in the Voltarol advert?

A Closer Look at the Ad

The ad features a motorcyclist riding through the scenic Surrey countryside, capturing a sense of freedom and adventure. Rather than focusing on discomfort, it celebrates the idea of staying active and mobile — core to Voltarol’s brand messaging. The production has a warm, upbeat feel, and the choice of a classic Triumph Bonneville Motorcycle & Sidecar gives it a timeless, aspirational quality.

The ad was created by advertising agency Saatchi & Saatchi, and two versions were produced so the campaign could run in markets outside the UK as well as domestically.

Who Is the Biker in the Voltarol Advert?

The motorcycle riding sequences in the Voltarol ad were performed by Paul Swift, a former British Motorsport champion and professional precision/stunt driver. Swift confirmed on his own website (paulswift.com) that he doubled for the main on-screen actor during filming. He was given a Triumph Bonneville Motorcycle & Sidecar for the shoot.

The filming took place around Box Hill in Surrey — a location well-known to cyclists and motorcyclists across the UK — lending the ad its authentic, open-road feel.

Meet the Motorcyclist on Screen

While Paul Swift handled the precision riding, the elderly motorcyclist seen on screen in the ad is a separate actor. According to community discussion on The AnswerBank, the on-screen character was portrayed by an actor doubling whom Swift rode for. The casting was handled by Mark Summers Casting.

The character is an active, older individual who serves as an inspiration for anyone dealing with joint or muscle pain. He represents Voltarol’s message that physical discomfort — managed with the right pain relief — need not be a barrier to doing the things you love, whether that is motorcycling, cycling, gardening or any other activity.

The Music in the Voltarol Advert

The ad has used more than one soundtrack over its run. It was originally set to a cover of To Love Somebody. From early 2022, Voltarol updated the ad with a new song featuring the lyrics “Oh, it’s a beautiful day to be with you” — a change noted by tvadsongs.uk. The identity of the artist behind the updated track has not been officially confirmed by the brand.

Why Does the Ad Feature a Motorcyclist?

Voltarol’s advertising has consistently focused on people staying active despite pain — runners, gardeners, cyclists and motorcyclists all feature across the brand’s various campaigns. The choice of an older motorcyclist is deliberate: it challenges assumptions about age and physical limitation, and makes the point that with effective pain management, an active life is possible at any stage.

Voltarol (known as Voltaren in some markets) is a topical diclofenac gel used to relieve pain from conditions such as arthritis, back pain and muscle soreness. It is available over the counter in pharmacies and supermarkets across the UK.