Toy appeal gets a major boost from bikers…

THE appeal at the heart of our community – The Kevin Jenkins OBE Newham Christmas Toy Appeal 2025 got a major boost.

Kindhearted motorcyclists made their usual brilliant Christmas Toy Run to provide much needed new toys the campaign.

They braved the rain and terrible traffic conditions, due to the closure of the Blackwall Tunnel, road closures and road accidents and brought hundreds of the toys to appeal organisers Ambition, Aspire, Achieve’s headquarters, the Terence Brown Arc In the Park, Canning Town.

Organiser John Pryke explained that the riders met up to start their run at Triumph East London headquarters in London Road, Romford. Triumph had collected toys at their base in the last few weeks to boost the event and delivered them in two car loads.

“The appeal is so important to young people in Newham and we have been happy to lend our support. We always get a great welcome at AAA and are happy to support the campaign,” said John, who praised all the riders taking part at the end of run.

* Revving up for the appeal. Bikers at the Terence Brown Arc In The Park

After touring Essex and East London and collecting toys – and more bikers – they added more than 300 toys to boost the appeal.

AAA Chief Executive Jonny Boux told the bikers the need was greater than ever this year and their efforts always seem to kick start the campaign at the time when it needs it most.

“We have deprivation really hitting young people hard and your incredible efforts today have been simply magnificent. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,” he said. The ride was staged with help from the Triumph East London and the Riders Who Want To Make A Difference group.

Pictures: Colin Grainger