Hundreds of bikers rode into Mansfield as part of an annual event to deliver Easter eggs to those less fortunate.

The Nottinghamshire Easter Egg Run, now in its 44th year, saw 809 bikers and their pillions from across the county ride from Nottingham’s Forest Recreation Ground to Mansfield Fire Station on Rosemary Street.

The motorcyclists donated a total of 2,650 eggs for disadvantaged children and those with additional needs across the county — and also had the chance, together with members of the public, to tour Mansfield Fire Museum.

The event, which started in 1981 and has been facilitated for the last 19 years by Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, relies on bikers from across the county who volunteer to take part each year.

Event organiser Tim Marston, a regional fire investigation dog handler, thanked Chief Fire Officer Craig Parkin for attending the event as it left the Forest Recreation Ground, and for allowing Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service to host the event.

“It’s been a great turnout and I’m under no illusion just how fantastic the motorcycling community is,” he said. “Despite many people feeling the pinch as the cost of living increases, bikers’ generosity knows no bounds. They always dig deep when those less fortunate require assistance or support and are an inspiration to others.

“We are not a registered charity, but a charitable event and over the years we’ve delivered around 50,000 Easter eggs and raised money for children’s charities and day trips.”

Paul Horton, communications officer at the fire museum, added: “We always open the museum so bikers and members of the public can have a look around, as an attraction to the event and learn about the history of firefighting.”

The thousands of eggs will be distributed to hospitals, Surestart centres, children’s homes, children with special needs, and those living with foster parents.