Bikers' record turnout for Northampton charity ride
A huge convoy of Harley Davidson motorcycles filled the streets of Northampton town centre as part of the sixth annual April Fools Bike Run.
The biggest ever turnout for the event – with at least 190 bikers taking part – travelled together from Sixfields Stadium to Abington Street on Saturday to raise money for Cynthia Spencer Hospice.
The rally was first organised by Northamptonshire County Councillor Terry Wire (Lab, St James) six years ago, after he was diagnosed with cancer.
Speaking after he pulled up in Abington Street, Councillor Wire said he hoped to raise more than 2,000 from this year's event
He said: "It has been brilliant, with the good weather it has brought a record number of people out. The route was a bit more difficult this year due to the closure of Gold Street as we had to use St Peter's Way roundabout instead but we did have additional marshals this year.
"I really do appreciate all the support and all the help I have got to put on this fantastic event."
The turnout for this year's event smashed last year's record, when about 140 bikers paraded through Northampton.
The bike run is advertised on specialist Harley Davidson websites as well as a national motorbike magazine and leather-clad enthusiasts of all ages come to Northampton from all over the country including Leicestershire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire to take part.
Sue Bownass, from Friends of Cynthia Spencer, said she was completely overwhelmed by the amount of support the event had attracted this year.
She said: "It is a fantastic event, absolutely awesome. I wept when all the bikes came up Abington Street. The bikers raise a lot of money for us and we have had companies say that whatever we raise this year they will match it.
"The turnout this year has been absolutely phenomenal. People have come from all over the place to support it."
The April Fools Bike Run has raised more than 20,000 to date and people can still donate money to this year's event by contacting Councillor Wire on Northampton 589022 or email twire@northamptonshire.gov.uk
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Weather for Northampton
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
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Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
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