Motorbikers deliver Christmas toys to hospital

More than 270 motorcyclists took part

Hundreds of motorcyclists wearing festive outfits have passed through Swindon on their way to deliver toys to children in hospital.

The event on Saturday was the 33rd year the Pinkertons motorcycle club have gone through the town, ending at Great Western Hospital.

The group raised more than £1,500 to buy the gifts in a street collection at the end of November, alongside donations from local businesses making a total of £7,000.

The club's president Dave Carver told BBC Radio Wiltshire the moment of handing over the presents was "absolutely amazing".

Speaking on Friday Mr Carver said: "One of our members is of course Father Christmas and he will go up talking to the children on the ward tomorrow and give them a present."

As well as toys delivered by Father Christmas to each individual child, each year the group also buys new games consoles, televisions and play equipment for the hospital's family room.

All motorcyclists in Swindon and the surrounding area were invited to take part, with 271 attending the event.

In total £7,000 was raised

The toy run has taken place since 1991, and originated at the motorcycles' namesake, an American-themed grill and bar open in the west of the town at the time.

"The manager there said to me and a few other lads who were riding motorcycles at the time 'we're going to go to the hospital and take some toys, are you up for it?'" said Mr Carver.

"We said 'yes, of course we are' and from that it has grown into what it is today."

Mandy Evans, secretary of Pinkertons motorcycle club, told the BBC after the event it was their "biggest ever".

"It's all about the kids seeing Santa. It was heart-warming as always," she said.

"Some of the children were very poorly so seeing their smiles was wonderful.

"That's what it's all about for me."