BOROUGH bikers are revving up for the annual Toy Run to bring the magic of Christmas to children across the country.
Thousands of spectators are expected in Wokingham to see the convoy of over 2,000 riders roar through the streets.
And the event will be taking place tomorrow despite the cold weather – showers are forecast to die out before the run gets underway at 2pm.
The event – which began with just 15 bikers – is now in its 32nd year and is regarded as one of the biggest and best of its kind in the south east.
Most of the riders come from within the area but others travel from as far as Scotland, Wales and even Germany.
Ben Spiller who launched the event said: “We started it all those years ago because there wasn’t much to do back then in winter.
“It grew and grew over the years and now we get around 2,000 bikes taking part every year. Crowds line the streets to see and hear this amazing spectacle which helps bring some Christmas cheer to children all over the country.”
Look back: video of 2015’s Toy Run
Riders in Santa costumes and fancy festive outfits, are asked to bring an unwrapped toy with them. These are collected and donated to Barnardo’s who then distribute them across its care centres.
This year’s Toy Run is on Sunday, December 10 with big-hearted bikers meeting at 1pm at Amec Foster Wheeler in Shinfield before setting off an hour later.
Road closures
A number of roads will be affected with closures to allow the convoy to pass through.
These include Whitley Wood Lane, Lower Earley Way between The Black Boy roundabout and the Showcase cinema, the A329 Reading Road between Showcase cinema and Shute End, Rectory Road and Wiltshire Road to High Close School.
Directions: from J11, M4, take exit B3270 (signposted Earley) – Whitley Wood Lane running parallel with the M4. It may also be sign posted Reading FC park and ride.
For more information, search for Reading Toy Run on Facebook
