Bikers from across the county will be revving up their engines for the annual Devon Air Ambulance Motorcycle Ride Out in support of the charity.

On Sunday, July 15, the motorcyclists will depart from two locations, Evans Transport in Bideford as well as their usual start point at Trago Mills, Newton Abbott.

From there, they will make their way to The Den in Teignmouth to be greeted by friends, family, residents and seaside visitors keen to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment from some of the South West’s most popular bands.

Having gone to the aid of 58 bikers in 2017 alone, the Ride Out is also an important occasion to promote safe motorcycle riding in the area.

As well as live music, the event will offer an array of vendors supplying tasty food for the the hungry hoards, whilst youngsters will have the chance to meet Ambrose the Bear, Devon Air Ambulance’s much loved mascot, and have fun on a bouncy castle.

The event, which has been running since 2006, is one of the most high-profile dates on the charity’s calendar and is well supported by biker groups in the region. Among them are several former patients who are all too familiar with the vital role the two helicopters play in Devon’s communities.

The Devon Air Ambulance, which has been running for 26 years, relies heavily on the support and generosity of communities, businesses and friends of Devon raising money and donating to the Devon Air Ambulance Trust.

‘In 2017 it cost £6.4 million to keep Devon’s Air Ambulances flying,’ says Caroline Creer, Fundraising and Communications Director at the Devon Air Ambulance.

‘We would not be able to deliver the service that we do without the incredible support of our fundraisers at events like these. It’s also a really fun family-friendly day out, and quite the spectacle to see so many motorcycles assembled. We’re hopeful that the weather will remain as fantastic as it has been lately!’

The Ride Out would not be the success that it is without the support of local biker groups, as well as Bridge Motorcycles, who once more are sponsoring the popular event.

Online signups for the event close at midday on Thursday, July 12 so there’s still time for riders to pay £5 for entry and get their stylish complimentary t-shirt, this year in slate grey, which they can collect at the registration point.

Caroline said: ’We’re really looking forward to greeting our riders at The Den on Sunday ,July 15. It’s always a fantastic occasion and fun for everyone who takes part or comes along. It’s also a great help to the charity and we’re very grateful to all those who support it.’