Bikers swap helmets for Santa hats

Motorcycle groups donate toys to children’s ward at Peterborough City Hospital

Motorcycle groups from across the area, teamed up to take toys to Peterborough City Hospital for Christmas.

Swapping leathers for Santa costumes, the bikers rode in on bikes adorned in tinsel. Though it wasn’t only Santa who was present, but several elves and reindeer. The bikers donated hundreds of presents for children on the Amazon ward. All wrapped and ready to go, the presents will be handed out over the Christmas period.

This is the 16th year the bikers have held their annual toy run.

Peter Ward, lead organiser for 14 years was beaming at the turn out. He said: “We’ve had about 100 bikers this year, from lots of different groups. Between us we’ve given around 140 presents. It is quite special when the children see us. Any child who was able to, came out but we drove near the windows of the children’s ward so those who couldn’t come out still got to see us.”

They couldn’t have been more impressed with the weather, as the event in previous years has sometimes had to be cancelled. Peter explained: “The sun was shining, which was a relief. Before we’ve had to cancel last minute due to snow and ice on the roads. Though the children always got their toys delivered, it’s better when we can surprise them with the toy run.”

The bikers were joined by police, who escorted the convoy through the city before arriving at the hospital. Peter was especially pleased as the children loved the flashing blue light entrance for the vehicles. He said: “It’s really quite a feat, they were able to marshal 100 of us without any traffic or trouble. We’re really happy to have them involved every year.”

Other support came from the RAF, who sent their bikers and from Sycamore BMW.

Peter invites any motorcyclists to join their planned Easter toy run to the hospital. Call: 07712671555.