The brisk winds of Storm Darragh were still keenly felt by the many motorcyclists and scooter riders who had gathered at the McDonalds car park on Edge Lane, Liverpool to show their support for the Christmas ride-out in aid of Alder Hey Hospital.
At the gathering place, Gladstone Group Secretary John Reynolds and his wife Debbie, who had brought £200 worth of gifts collected from Cecil Lodge No 3274 in support of the event. Two wheeled support is a bi-annual event taking place before Easter and Christmas every year and is organised by Geoff Bell of St Nicholas Lodge No 3620.
The event, which has been running for over 20 years, raises much needed funds for Alder Hey hospital, as well as easter eggs, selection boxes and very important at this time of year, are the many Christmas presents which are also donated.
The run is supported by another charity organisation, Bike Marshals who provide their service free of charge, with escort vehicles front and rear, and motorcycle outriders along the way, they signpost the route, keeping all the participants safe.
With well over 100 motorbikes, scooters and trikes, the procession set off with a route taking Edge Lane, Kensington, Old Swan, West Derby and finally to Queen’s Drive, where the cacophony of noise was welcomed by all the many passers-by waving their support for the ride out.
The riders making their way to the front entrance of the hospital and parking up bikes and scooters, were met by staff and patients who spent time talking with the riders and looking at all the machinery on display. With many riders in Father Christmas suits and other costumes, and the bikes festooned with fairy lights and tinsel, it made for a very festive occasion.
The four loading crates which were placed at the front entrance made a focal point and were soon overflowing, a full of selection boxes, toys and presents which would be gratefully received by patients and staff at the hospital.
Organiser Geoff Bell, who was walking around with a collection bucket, later reported that along with a raffle held at the Alder Club later that afternoon, a total of over £650 was raised on the day. An amazing sum of money which highlighted the generosity of the people taking part in the run, with warmer weather promised and fair winds, we are all looking forward to the Easter run, next year.
