THE annual Okehampton charity motorbike ride — known as the 'Cream Tea Run' — set off from the London Inn last weekend, all in aid of raising money for Hospiscare and the National Association for Bikers with a Disability.

Bikers turned up last Friday at Bracken Tor House to kick-start the weekend with a relaxed evening of acoustic music, food and drinks. Bikers camped overnight and set off from the London Inn the following morning, with the ride taking bikers to Boscastle for lunch, and then back to Okehampton.

The day was rounded off with a fundraising party, with a barbecue and live music, with local favourites First Requiem, What Crisis?, and Rock Salmon among the array of bands that played. The day was rounded off with a two hour closing set by Green Day tribute band, Dookie.

Scottie Scott, involved with fundraising for the event, said: 'Some 30 bikes and trikes enjoyed fabulous weather riding from the London Inn on Saturday morning.

'In the evening a crowd of around 200 people consisting of bikers from near and far — some riding all the way from Crewe — as well as local families enjoyed a relaxed evening of fabulous music.

'All of the bands gave of their time completely free of charge and a special mention has to go to Dookie who travelled all the way from Essex to support the event. A fine gesture from a very fine band indeed!'

Event organiser Janice Elson said: 'This was the best 'Cream Tea Run' ever! The total amount of money raised is still being counted but the event committee are confident of distributing sizeable donations to both Hospiscare and to the National Association for Bikers with a Disability.

'Needless to say it will all happen again next year when we hope we can make even more special.'