Dorchester motorbike sidecar surprise for care home resident

Mr Canning arrived in Dorchester to find 126 other motorcyclists waiting to accompany him

More than 120 bikers took part in a ride out as a surprise treat for a motorcycle-mad care home resident.

Joe Canning, 77, from Dorchester, had not ridden in 20 years so care home staff posted a plea on Facebook for someone to take him for a spin.

Bikers for Action SW heard about the request and one of the riders collected Mr Canning from his home in a sidecar.

The pair rode into Dorchester before being met by 126 more motorcyclists who joined him for a tour around the town.

Mr Canning rode in a sidecar alongside a Royal Enfield motorcycle

After returning Mr Canning to Maiden Castle House care home, the riders stayed for tea and cake and a chat about their shared interest.

Mr Canning, who previously owned a Honda Gold Wing and a Moto Guzzi, travelled in a Velorex Sport sidecar alongside a 500cc Royal Enfield Classic for the ride out on Saturday morning.

He said: "It was a great day and didn't expect so many people to be there. I enjoyed it very much."

The motorcyclists returned to the care home for tea and cake

The ride out was led by John Bramble of Bikers for Action SW group and the sidecar was provided by fellow rider Richard Lucas.

Care home manager Ash Smith said: "We were overwhelmed by the number of bikers who turned up to support Joe and the number of people who lined the streets to wave as he zoomed past.

"It was lovely to see Joe having a fantastic day with the help and support of the local community."

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