Annual Santa-themed motorcycle ride out returns

Hundreds of bikers take part in the ride out each year

The annual Santa’s on a Bike mass motorcycle ride is returning to the Isle of Man's roads next month.

Hundreds of bikers dressed in Santa costumes will take part in the event, which sets off from the capital of Douglas on 7 December.

Last year’s ride raised over £86,000 for Rebecca House, the children’s hospice on the Isle of Man.

Nicola Patterson of organisers Plan.com said the island's motorcycling heritage meant it was the "perfect place to bring everyone together to spread some festive cheer in aid of such a worthwhile cause”.

In a change from previous years, which saw the event start at either the Sea Terminal or the TT Grandstand, riders will this year set off from a spot on Victoria Street in Douglas in front of the firm's headquarters at 10:00 GMT.

The street itself will be closed and have parking suspensions from Fort Street to the Jubilee Clock between 07:30 and 10:45.

But though traffic will still be able to flow from Fort Street onto Lord Street.

Hundreds of bikers took part in last year's ride, which raised £86,000 for charity

The convoy will head south to Castletown, before returning to the east of the island, finishing at Rebecca House near Noble’s Hospital in Braddan.

Hospice Isle of Man chief executive John Knight said that the event was one that staff always made sure the children at the facility got involved with, and they "they always have a fantastic day”.

Since 2018, over £225,000 has raised for Rebecca House by the sponsored rides.