Saturday, August 6, 2011
UK - Bikers rev up to raise £7,000
OFF THE WIRE
Bikers' boost ... members of the Badlanders Motor Cycle Club present a cheque for �7,000 to Joyce Walker regional co-ordinator of Save Our Soldiers at the Hells Angels club house, Murton Street, Sunderland.
MOTORBIKE lovers flocked to South Tyneside and revved up more than £7,000 for charity.
Members of the Badlanders Motorcycle Club held their third Armed Forces Day at Bents Park in South Shields, in June.
More than 500 bikers rode in from the Hell’s Angels Club House in Sunderland, making it one of the largest convoys ever to take place in the region, to show their respect for soldiers fighting on the front line.
The cash has now been handed over to Support Our Soldiers – a charity which helps members of the British Armed Forces – and some has also been donated to smaller military causes.
Organiser Joe Fairrie said: “This was our third Armed Forces Day event and it was fantastic. Everyone had a fabulous time.
“The weather was glorious and the sun shone all day. Everyone really enjoyed themselves.
“We were all more than happy with how well it went and delighted that we raised so much cash for such worthy causes.
“Last year we raised just over £4,529, so we had hoped we’d beat that figure and we certainly did.”
Yesterday’s Heroes fascinated the crowds with their Second World War re-enactment.
They also put on displays of military vehicles, memorabilia and weapons.
Plus members of the North East Streetrod Club were also there to show off their custom cars at the event.
There was plenty for the kids to enjoy too with funfair rides, face painting and street entertainers.
They could also sit in the huge army truck or have a go on the climbing tower.
Live entertainment was provided through the day and included groups The Arrival, Waiting for Friday, Dirty South and Sounds of the 60s as well as the Durham Army Cadet Force Brass Band.
Mr Fairrie added: “I would like to thank everyone who made the event possible and all those who came along and showed their support.”
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