THERE was a rumble in the streets of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole on Sunday as hundreds of motorcyclists set off for the annual Distinguished Gentleman’s Bike Ride.
More than 900 riders donned their smartest attire, including ties, waistcoats and, for the women, fake moustaches, as they took to the streets for the course.
It started with a mass gathering along Poole Quay, before setting off for Sandbanks, and then arriving at Bournemouth Pier for a break.
The huge convoy restarted along the promenade to Boscombe ahead of finishing at Destination Triumph in Christchurch.
Taking place across the globe in more than 100 countries, the ride is in aid for Movember, which raises awareness and money for men’s mental health and prostate cancer.
So far, the Dorset event, which is said to be even bigger than in the founding city of Sydney, has raised close to £70,000 and is 11th overall in money raised globally.
Setting off the riders along Poole Quay with a Union Jack start flag was the mayor, Cllr Tony Trent.
He said: “I really am impressed by what is here today. I didn’t know what to expect and straight away I saw more motorbikes here than I have seen in my entire life, times by about 10.
“What brilliant outfits everybody has on as well, they look absolutely fantastic.
“I’m told this is also the largest such event in Europe and there are almost 1,000 motorcyclists here so this this up from last year so hopefully they will raise lots of money for good causes.”
Motorcyclists Mike and Louise said it was “fantastic” to be taking part.
They said: “We love going out for rides anyway, so we thought why not take part in this event and try and raise a bit of money for a good cause?”
Chris Hobson, organiser, said: “Apart from the traffic, everything has been absolutely fine. We got stuck in Christchurch because of an accident and there was the chilli festival and the traffic was completely backed up.
“We had to rejig the route, but everybody appeared alright, and it was a really enjoyable day.”
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