More than 180 bikers joined a festive convoy to deliver Christmas joy to vulnerable and disadvantaged children and young people across the county.
The riders, dressed in festive costumes, were led by Derbyshire police’s Upright Derbyshire team and the support team from a local motorcycle dealership in Long Eaton.
Flanked by a police motorcycle escort, they travelled from Long Eaton to the Darley Abbey Mills offices of Safe and Sound – Derbyshire’s specialist charity that supports young people and families across the county whose lives are affected by child exploitation.
Hundreds of toys which have been collected from benefactors around the county were unloaded for distribution amongst the families across the county who are supported by Safe and Sound.
Organiser PC Craig Holmes explained: “Upright Bikes is a safety awareness initiative led by Derbyshire police in recognition that motorbikes make up just 1% of vehicles on the road but are involved in 19% of accidents across the county.
“This was our fourth toy run and we have had the best response ever – both in terms of the gifts donated and the number of bikers joining the convoy.
“We were keen to donate the gifts to Safe and Sound because this is all about the most vulnerable road users supporting some of the most vulnerable children and young people in our county.”
Safe and Sound CEO Tracy Harrison added: “The Upright Bikes Toy Run is an incredible sight and we are honoured that they have chosen to support us.
“These presents will bring so much joy to the young people and families who we support at a very dark time in their lives and who thoroughly deserve light and happiness at this special time of year.”