THOUSANDS of bikers will set off from Laindon as part of the Essex Motorbike Run.

The ride, on September 11, is the biggest fundraising event in the Essex Air Ambulance calendar, and last year saw more than 5,000 motorbikes riding the 60 miles from the Ford Dunton Technical Centre to Harwich.

They raised £38,000 for the life-saving charity which relies on donations to keep running.

Before they set off, the Bolddog Freestyle Motocross (FMX) display team, stars of Britain’s Got Talent, will kick start the event with their death-defying stunts, jumping gaps of more than 75 feet and reaching heights of 35 feet.

Hundreds of spectators are expected to cheer on the convoy of bikers on Essex Police-approved route to Harwich and crowds will welcome the riders at the end of their journey at the Harwich Family Festival, where entertainment including local bands and a charity auction will celebrate another fun-packed day.

Jen Wall, events manager for Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust, said: “This charity ride-out is a highlight of the year for so many bikers who come from far afield to be part of this special occasion.

"We even have bikers who come from Holland to take part.

“The sight of so many motorbikes riding along together is amazing to see and it is one of the highlights of the Harwich Family Festival.

“We could not organise an event like this without our volunteers and sponsors, who work so hard to help us raise vital funds to keep our helicopters flying.”

Last year’s Essex Air Ambulance Motorcycle Run welcomed participants from across the country, and across the Channel too.

John Bouknecht, of the Café Cruisers from Breda in Holland enjoys taking part with his friends every year.

John said: “The crowd and the air ambulance charity make this event really special.

"We have friends in Harwich and we love to come here every year.”

Pre-registration prices - before September 4 - are £7 per biker and £13 for a rider and pillion.

On the day prices are £10 per person and £15 for rider and pillion.

For more information call 0345 2417 690 or visit EssexAirAmbulance.uk.com