Motorcyclists riding from Brighton City Airport To Chichester in aid of Ukrainian refugees

On Sunday April, 24, a group of motorcyclists will be riding for Ukraine, in support of the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC).

The ride shall start at Brighton City Airport and finish at the Goodwood Motor Circuit, where the motorbikes will assemble on the pit straight for a commemorative photo.

The ride is the idea of Burpham resident Dominic Santana, who along with Bob Lock, Neil Westoby, Paul Sacha and Steve Morelli are organising the event.

Mr Santana said: "Watching the war unfold on TV, I was devastated by the images and felt compelled to do something. I own a classic motorbike, am part of a village group of enthusiasts and also take part in many charity ride outs myself, including the Distinguished Gentleman Ride, (happening on 22nd May).

"I approached Bob Lock, Neil Westoby and Paul Sacha from the DGR, and also Steve Morelli who organises Ride of the Ruperts Hop Run (12th June). All of them immediately jumped on board, spread the word to their members and helped organise the infrastructure of the ride and the route we would take. Goodwood were also very kind in supporting us early on, (the ride finishes here with a commemorative photos) as were Brighton City Airport, in accommodating us, where the ride begins".

So far, nearly one hundred riders, on motorbikes of all ages and sizes, have registered for the ride, but there is still plenty of room for more, with other motorcyclists encouraged to join.. To date over £2000 has been raised for the DEC.

The DEC brings together 15 leading UK aid charities to raise funds quickly and efficiently at times of crisis overseas, including helping refugees in Ukraine and Afghanistan.

The date of the 24th was chosen as it marks two months since the war begun.

Mr Santana added: "I genuinely thought and hoped negotiations would have brought peace by the time our ride began, but it seems we are far from that now. The aim of the ride is to show solidarity for Ukraine, but also encourage others to initiate local fund-raising events. We need to keep hope for the Ukrainian people alive, in any small way we can".

For more information and how to register, please click on the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/343255291083944To donate click the link below:

https://donation.dec.org.uk/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal