AROUND 5,000 motor cyclists held a big parade taking about 15,000 tasty Easter eggs to children at Arrowe Park Hospital and for other needy children, writes Robin Bird.

Sunday's annual Easter Egg Run attracted a record entry of between 5,000 and 6,000 riders and pillion passengers, who lined the dips, on New Brighton front, for the start.

It is believed to be the biggest bike run in the world, with all types of machines and is organised by the Empress Motor Cycle Club.

Club secretary Peter Bywater said the entry fee was at least one Easter Egg for the children. "Bikers are often given a bad name and this is our way of saying 'We are not bad people, we do care'. Several riders and passengers, in all age groups, opted for Easter Bunny fancy dress.

There was even an Easter Egg shaped Bubble car and a Herbie like trike - or Herbike!

The ride received advanced publicity in the Globe and a crowd gathered to see the bikers, braving stormy weather at New Brighton. The riders returned at noon for a hot dog and drink at Old Mother Red Caps, where partner Peter Crystal praised the bikers for their charity ride and good behaviour. A view echoed by Hospital Children's Trust Manager Pauline Riding. "It is an overwhelming sight to see so many bikers arrive at the hospital. Many of the children like to watch from a window and listen to the roar of the motorcycles."

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