SANTA Claus was out in force at the weekend when more than 30 bikers decked out in Father Christmas outfits full-throttled their engines for Butterwick Hospice.

The charity motorbike ride between Wolviston village on Teesside and Auckland Castle in Bishop Auckland, County Durham raised more than £500 for the Bishop Auckland hospice.

Money was raised from bikers who, as well as raising their own sponsorship, each paid £12.50 to enter the event.

Leading the convoy in a vintage MG safety car were classic car buffs, George Robinson and Rob Pase. Mr Robinson said: “This is the first year we have done this and next year I expect we’ll have a lot more people coming along. There are hundreds of classic vehicles in the North-East.”

Biker, Peter Graham, riding an 1800cc Rowaco tricycle, said: “We’ve had great fun as well as raising money for a good cause. I particularly enjoyed the Santa breakfast the landlord at the Wellington pub gave us.”

Event organiser, Beryl Anderson, a volunteer fund-raiser with the hospice, said: “The rain didn’t deter anyone. Everyone that entered has turned up. The support has been fantastic. Considering it’s the first time we’ve run the event, I am over the moon with the support we’ve had.”

Mrs Anderson added that she hopes to repeat the event next year.