MOTORCYCLE riders geared up in festive outfits to deliver toys to a children’s hospital.

The Dengie and South Essex Bikers gathered to go on their second annual Broomfield and Little Havens Hospice Christmas Toy Run.

More than 50 bikers from across the district dressed as Santa, reindeer and his elves to join organiser Steve Maples on the expedition.

The bikers set off from Burnham on Saturday with sacks of gifts and a makeshift sleigh.

Steve said: “It was our second year of doing it. I run the Dengie bikers’ group and I thought it was good idea to do something for a local charity again and give to the community.

“Once we arrive, we go around the ward and meet a few of the children in hospital, hand the toys out and meet the nurses who do great work.

“We then all congregate outside – we like to do it for the community really.

“It’s a nice thing to do for the children stuck in hospital and to give them a bit of respite over the festive period and just to lift spirits.”

For Steve and partner Leanne Smith, the trip is especially important as the couple lost their daughter Paige Elisha in 2018, who was born at 35 weeks.

They delivered teddies, books and DVDs to poorly youngsters and donated nappies to the post-natal ward.

Steve added: “We also do a lot for the air ambulance and other children’s charities locally.

“I’ve got a child, Daniel, with a skin condition and he’s in and out of hospital, so I know how important their care can be.

“My three-week-old son Rhys was also born there.

“It’s always nice to see people come and support the run. Bikers get a bad name for the way some people ride, but bikers do have a nice spirit and we really like to help everyone out.”

Morrisons in Maldon offered the group free tea and coffee and donated toys.

A neonatal ambulance carried extra presents.

Photos by www.shiningthroughphotography.com