EXCITEMENT is building ahead of a flagship fundraising event that will see bikers go on a fun run.

The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) will host its annual motorcycle run and family fun day in Harwich after a two year hiatus.

During the pandemic, EHAAT encouraged its biking community to ride out solo in their own time.

However, it will be full throttle ahead for a live run this year, with thousands of bikers coming together to take part in the 60-mile trip in support of global logistics company Woodland Group.

Emma Barker, head of income generation at EHAAT is delighted that the run is returning.

She said: “The Motorcycle Run and Family Fun Day celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2019. Leaving from Ford Dunton, over 3,500 bikes took part, raising thousands of pounds for the charity.

“This year, for the first time, we are starting the run from North Weald Airfield, the home of our new state-of-the-art airbase”

Bikers are asked to arrive from 8am, with staggered departures kicking off in groups at 10am.

The run finishes at the Quay in Harwich, where they will be waved on by local dignitaries, the EHAAT family and spectators.

The free family fun day will take place at The Green in Harwich and has something for everyone including games, live music, exhibitors and refreshments.

Emma added: “Bikers are a really key supporter group to us, partly because they are aware of how important the air ambulance service is.

“It is a great day to get together with so many of the biking community, thank them, and raise awareness about the life-saving work we do as a charity.”

Roger Went, of the Independent Harley Davidson Riders Club Essex Chapter, said: “We have been supporting Essex & Herts Air Ambulance for many years now by stewarding and riding the bike run event, which is a great opportunity for bikers to come together in support of the charity.

“We all hope we will never need the service but have security in knowing it is there if we ever do.”

The event will take place on Sunday, September 18, for more information and to book your place visit bit.ly/3SjUnMy.