Thousands in bike convoy to support air ambulance

Former motorcycle world champion Carl Fogarty said it was a special event

Thousands of bikers have taken part in an annual ride-out in Shropshire to raise money for the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

Bike4Life saw a convoy of motorcycles travel from Meole Brace in Shrewsbury to Weston Park on the Staffordshire border on Sunday.

The event had been due to take place in April but was delayed due to poor weather.

The charity said it was one of its biggest fundraising events.

Thousands of people took part in Sunday's event

Former motorcycle world champion Carl Fogarty MBE said it was a special event.

"It's important that we raise money and keep that thing in the air, you never know when you might need it and it's just a fantastic event," he said.

"There's three or four thousands bikers, the road's shut, [there is] a police escort, it's a really good feeling to lead the parade."

Responding to incidents involving motorcyclists was one of the charity's highest call-out categories, a spokesperson said, adding that it appreciated the support.

The route is a 26-mile ride from Meole Brace, Shrewsbury to Weston Park

It was estimated about 6,000 bikes took part on Sunday and 10,000 visitors were due to attend the festival which included live bands, bike shows, trade stands and food.

Becci England, critical care paramedic with the charity, said the money raised would go towards the costs of operating their helicopters and their overnight vehicle that helped them provide 24-hour cover.

The charity, which is reliant on fundraising, serves the communities of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, the West Midlands and Worcestershire.