Telford thermal insulation and manufacturing firm Seymour Manufacturing International (SMI) has proudly supported an annual charity event which collects toys for under-privileged children.

The Star Bikers charity has been holding an annual charity motorcycle run in the run-up to Christmas for the past 47 years, and this year’s event was one of the biggest ever.

SMI gave £150 towards toys for the appeal, and chief operating officer Kirsty Murrell and husband Dave took part in the ride – dressed as Santa and his elf – to personally hand over toys bought by the SMI donation.

More than 2,000 bikers took part in the parade of motorbikes and scooters around the streets of Stoke-on-Trent collecting toys and donations along the way, followed by a big party to hand over the collected donations.

“It was an amazing day,” said Kirsty, who is part of the Telford Trikers group.

“The biking community is brilliant, and there was such a great atmosphere. This is the second year that we have taken part, but the event keeps getting bigger and bigger. We’ve already decided to sign up for 2026.”

Starting from Stoke City FC’s bet365 Stadium, the cavalcade wound its way through Trentham, Blurton, Weston Coyney, Bentilee, Baddeley Green, Milton, Sneyd Green and Northwood, cheered on by hundreds of residents lining the streets.

Kirsty said: “Each biker contributed toys and donations, ensuring that local children in need will wake up to gifts on Christmas morning. It’s such a brilliant cause.”

Star Bikers chairman Ant Middleton said: “Bikers are very generous people. This run shows the power of community and compassion, and we’re proud to keep the tradition alive.”