Thousands of bikers remember the fallen in ride

Former serviceman David Sheaf saluted as the bikers arrived at the National Memorial Arboretum

Thousands of motorcyclists from across the world gathered for an annual remembrance event at the National Memorial Arboretum.

Riders from as far afield as Spain, Germany and the US took part in the Ride to the Wall, now in its 17th year, as they travelled in convoy to the site in Alrewas, Staffordshire.

Organisers said this year's ride, held on Saturday, had been the best yet for pre-registration, with 5,500 motorbikes booked in at 11 different start points.

The event has seen those involved, nicknamed "Wallers", raise more than £1.66m towards the upkeep of the arboretum since its inception.

Ride to the Wall began in 2008

Event founder Martin Dickinson said the majority of the motorcyclists involved have connections to the armed forces.

"I was in the Royal Corps of Transport and a lot of guys I served with over 40 years ago attend," he said.

"I don't know the reason why, but a lot of ex-service people ride motorcycles," he added, saying many family members also attend the event by car.

Thousands of bikers had registered for the ride and many have links to the armed forces

The ride is held on the first Saturday of October to mark the date when the Armed Forces Memorial was dedicated by Queen Elizabeth II in October 2007.

The memorial commemorates all those who have died in service since the end of World War Two.

"It's one massive, emotional day," stated Mr Dickinson.

David Sheaf, who served in the British Army for six years, said it was important to be part of the event.

"I turn up to say thank you to the bikers, because they are remembering their mates, my mates," he said.

He said the camaraderie is special, adding: "Everyone knows why we are here, we are not here for us, we are here for the names on that wall."