Bikers have turned out in their thousands to take part in the famous Wirral "tribute" Egg Run today.

Onlookers have lined the route to cheer the riders on as they make their way through Wallasey, Moreton, Hoylake, Wesk Kirby, Thurstaston, Heswall, Thornton Hough, and Claremount Farm at Clatterbridge.

The fund-raising event collects donations for several charities including Claire House children's hospice.

At its peak the official Egg Run attracted more than 12,000 bikers from across the UK and overseas.

It began from humbler origins with around 20 members of the New Brighton Empress Motorcycle Club riding to the old Heswall Children's Hospital in 1981 to donate Easter eggs.

It grew every year until in December of 2012, organisers caused an outcry when they announced the 2013 event had been axed "primarily due to a lack of support and sponsorship."

However a tribute run has been held each year since the "official" ride was cancelled.

The 2016 run attracted more than 4,000 bikers.