THOUSANDS of bikers recently took part in one of the largest biking events in the country, raising money for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

Seven-times World Superbike champion and current ‘King of the Jungle’ Carl Fogarty was joined by TV presenter Richard Hammond to lead this year’s Bike4Life Ride Out.

About 5,000 bikers took to the A5 and M54 as they rode from Meole Brace in Shrewsbury to the RAF Museum Cosford, raising £45,000 in the process.

In addition to the bikers on the ride out, more than 4,000 bikers and families headed to the museum, home to the Bike4Life Festival, which featured entertainment including a fly past from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire.

Jason Levy, fundraising and marketing director for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “What an incredible day.

“We are blessed with immense support from the biking community and the number of motorcyclists and local people who joined us on the day was terrific.

“Each Midlands Air Ambulance mission costs £2,500, so the £45,000 raised will go towards 18 further life saving missions.

“Everyone who attended the ride out and festival should be extremely proud of what they’ve helped us achieve, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their commitment to the charity.”

At the festival, two Midlands Air Ambulance helicopters were on show for visitors to view on board as well as meet the aircrew.

Abi Betteridge, museum events manager, said: “We were staggered with the number of bikers wanting to take part in the ride out this year - I’ve never seen so many bikes in one place.

“It was fantastic to welcome so many bikers and families alike to the museum and to see them enjoying the festival atmosphere and everything the day had to offer.”