LEATHER and thundering noise filled the streets as thousands of motorcycles took to the roads for a 60-mile ride.

More than 5,000 bikers set off from the Ford Dunton Technical Centre in Laindon on Sunday for the annual Essex Air Ambulance Motorcycle Run.

With live music from Total 80s, Feel for Steel, and Ipswich vocalist Haz, spectators came out to cheer the riders on as they made their way to Harwich, before being greeted by local dignitaries as they crossed the finish line.

Jackie Brown, from the air ambulance, said: “The crowds at Dunton were buzzing with excitement.

“There were lots of happy bikers that were keen to do their bit to help support the air ambulance. It was a fantastic day, the sun was out and everyone had a great time. It looked like numbers were up from last year, it was a fantastic turnout and we are really pleased that so many people came and want to thank everyone for taking part.”

Last year, the event raised over £35,200. In its 17th year, attractions included motorcycle dealer stands, the Heart Angels, craft and community stands, a charity auction, the air ambulance itself and children’s activities.

At the finish line in Harwich, riders enjoyed the Family Festival on the Harwich Green.

An air ambulance spokesman said it was not known whether a biker in his 60s from Sudbury, who suffered life-threatening injuries in a crash on the A120 after a trailer detached from a car and crossed the carriageway, had been taking part in the run.