Kindhearted bikers rev up for Toy Appeal

Motorcyclists revved up their bikes for their brilliant Christmas Toy Run on Saturday to provide much needed new toys for the Kevin Jenkins OBE Newham Christmas Toy Appeal 2023 appeal.

The bikers’ event been an annual one for the Newham campaign for many years now – and they also do a carbon copy run at Easter every year to provide Easter Eggs for youngsters.

Organiser John Pryke explained that the bikers – many in Yuletide garb – started their run at Triumph East London headquarters in London Road, Romford, at midday on Saturday (December 2). Triumph collected toys at their base to boost the event.

“The appeal is so important to young people in Newham and we have been happy to lend our support for many years now. We always get a great welcome wherever we are on the journeys and the appeal sums up how the community cares for one another,” said John. He praised all the riders taking part at the end of run.

• The bikers in AAA’s Toy Room

After touring Essex and East London and collecting toys – and more bikers – on the way, they arrived at Ambition Aspire Achieve’s (AAA) headquarters at the Terence Brown Arc in The Park in Hermit Road, Canning Town.

AAA chair of trustees Christine Bowden told the bikers the need was greater than ever this year for the appeal.

“We have deprivation really hitting young people hard in Newham and your efforts today have been simply magnificent. Thank you for braving such cold weather.”

The ride is staged with help from the Riders Who Want To Make A Difference group.

The bikers also have their own Facebook Group called the East London Toy/Egg Run.

Pictures: Colin Grainger