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07:00 - 16-June-2008
Sunday's Plymouth Mega-Ride saw more than 8,000 bikers on a vast array of vehicles travel from Lee Mill to the Hoe.
They were cheered on by crowds of people who gathered at A38 flyovers and laybys as well as on the Hoe itself.
Organiser Helen McCrave said a record number of bikers had taken part in this year's Mega-Ride – the 14th event of its kind.
She said: “I'm overwhelmed by the number of people who have turned up to take part. It's been fantastic.
“I have been involved in 13 out of the 14 and I have never seen it so busy before.
“We raised more than £8,000 for charity last year and we want to raise even more this year.”
Money will this year go to the British Limbless Ex-Service Men's Association and Elisabeth Svendsen Trust for Children and Donkeys.
Bikers from all over the country turned up to take part in the event, some with their children or dogs riding pillion.
John Goodall, 69, of Plymstock, said he believed he was riding the oldest bike in the event – a 1929 Scott Squirrel.
He said: “This is the fifth year I've taken part in the Mega-Ride. I keep coming back for the camaraderie and to see old friends.
“It's a brilliant atmosphere.”
Colyn Thomas, 68, of Millbrook, who rode alongside Mr Goodall on a 1948 BSA Bantam, said: “This is one of the highlights of the year. It's a very enjoyable event.
“You meet people who all talk the same language, all have the same interests.
“The atmosphere is just magic when you go up on the Hoe and get cheered on.”
'Tich' Taylor, 57, from Plympton, was taking part in the event with other members of the Plymouth Motorcycle Club.
He said: “I've taken part in seven Mega-Rides. It's a fantastic event.
“This year seems to have attracted the most bikers I've ever seen.
“It's a great feeling to take part. You get all the people on the flyovers, all the people on the roadsides cheering you on and waving – it's just a happy event.”
Steve Clarke, 63, of Bodmin, added: “You see the solidarity of bikers in this ride-out. It's great to congregate.
“It's a great event and it gets better every year. More bikes – that's got to be better.”
The event saw motorbikes riding 25 miles from Lee Mill to Plymouth Hoe via Marley Head on the A38.
The event featured trade stands, bouncy castles and live music from top city bands Blue Angel and Karrallon on the Hoe.
Details of the amount raised by the event will be announced over the coming days.
For more details, log on to www.mega-ride.co.uk or contact Mrs McCrave on 07855 356684.
View video footage of the ride at www.thisisplymouth.co.uk.
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