ONE of the largest charity motorcycle events in the South West was held at the weekend to raise money for Cornwall Blood Bikes.

Well over 1,000 riders gathered on Sunday, September 20 for the 39th Martin Jennings Memorial Motorcycle Run.

Bikers meet at the Tregurra Park and Ride Car Park in Truro before heading off on their fundraising journey around the county.

The convoy stopped off at Cornwall Services for lunch before heading down the A30 towards the village of Beacon, near Camborne. Riders at the village observed a minute’s silence in memory of Martin Jennings, who lost his life while competing at the Manx GP in 1987.

The bikers then travelled along the A394 to complete the journey at Falmouth Rugby Club, where they were welcomed by mayor Alan Jewell.

Event organisers have confirmed that this year’s event has raised over £10,200, with the final total still be to announced in due course.

The vital funds will allow Cornwall Blood Bikes to expand it’s fleet of motorcycles. The charity provides an ‘out of hours’ service to NHS partners, transporting essential urgent supplies throughout the Duchy.

The success of the event is attributed to the hard work of organiser David Saunby, along with the dedication of the Martin Jennings Marshals Association.

Next year’s run, which will mark the event’s 40th anniversary, will be in conjunction with Cornwall Air Ambulance, which is also 40 years old in 2027.