THE seventh annual Essex Air Ambulance motorcycle run roared into action yesterday as thousands of bikers wheeled their way to Harwich.The coastal town hosted a special fun day to welcome the leather-clad bike lovers, with activities and entertainment for people of all ages.

THE seventh annual Essex Air Ambulance motorcycle run roared into action yesterday as thousands of bikers wheeled their way to Harwich.

The coastal town hosted a special fun day to welcome the leather-clad bike lovers, with activities and entertainment for people of all ages.

David Crozier, director of Essex Air Ambulance, said: “The popularity of the Essex Air Ambulance motorcycle run has built up over a number of years.

“It has established itself as one of the top events in the charity's calendar and is probably one of the most important motorcycle events to take place in the county.

“We are also working closely with Essex Police, using the run to promote motorcycle safety.

“The air ambulance regularly responds to incidents involving motorcycles and receives tremendous support from the biker community.”

Last year the event was overshadowed by the tragic death of a female motorcyclist as she made her way home from the event.

Susan Young, 36, was killed on the A12 when she crashed into the central reservation as she made her way home form the run.

Organisers worked with police to introduce initiatives to ensure the safety of the participants, including stationing police motorcyclists at stops along the route.

After making their way from the Ford Dunton Technical Centre, the bikers eventually headed off down the A12, before being directed to Harwich town centre, which was closed to cars for the duration of the event.