PLENTY of motorbikes and even more people were out on the road between Heywood and Portland on Saturday as part of an annual institution.

The toy run between the two locations is in its 29^th year and it’s showing no signs of dropping off in popularity if Saturday’s numbers are anything to go by.

Organiser David Upton said he counted 112 motorbikes, with riders from as far afield as Hamilton, while Captain Peter Stamp of the Salvation Army said his count was 146 riders and passengers.

And both were delighted with the outcome.

“The weather was perfect, you couldn’t have asked for better,” Mr Upton said.

“Everyone enjoyed themselves – having all the activities (the markets and an emergency services expo were also on the foreshore where the run ended) seemed to make it like a carnival atmosphere.”

There were also lots of gifts, as well as monetary donations.

Mr Stamp said the donations hadn’t been tallied yet but riders and others were “very generous”, while he estimated about 300 gifts.

“Absolutely,” he said when asked if he was happy with the outcome.

“It was a beautiful day and a lot of people came out to support it.”

The presents will be wrapped next week before the Salvos distribute them to needy families in Portland and Heywood.

Mr Upton said he hoped to have “a big celebration” next year as the toy run marked 30 years since its beginning.