Around 200 motorcyclists from across Derbyshire have taken part in this year’s Upright Christmas Toy Run which began in Erewash.
Organised by the Derbyshire Police Upright team, the annual toy run - this year being the fifth of its kind - from Long Eaton was held in support of Derbyshire’s specialist child exploitation charity, Safe and Sound, who protect and support children, young people and families whose lives are affected by child exploitation.
Bikers, dressed in festive costumes, started gathering at Andrew Paul Upholstery in Fields Farm Road, Long Eaton, from 10:00am on 14th December before setting off in convoy at 12noon with a police escort to Derby.
The convoy finished around 45 minutes later at Safe and Sound’s offices in Darley Abbey Mills, and delivered hundreds of Christmas presents for the children and their families.
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.
“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 again this year.
“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.”
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