Members of motor cycle clubs from Sussex and Surrey met Golden Lion Children’s Trust on Sunday 1st December 2013 at Gatwick Manor Hotel, Lowfield Heath in their established tradition marking the start of Christmas celebrations for both groups.
More than 140 motor bikers plus pillion passengers and supporters in cars from Burgess Hill Motor Cycle Club; Motor Cycle Action group Brighton; Triumph Owners Club; Christian Motorcyclists Association; Dykes on Bikes; Vagabonds MCC; and the Vintage MCC plus individual riders from throughout Sussex and as far afield as Hastings joined the fun of the morning. One rider had even set off from Somerset that morning so he could take part.
Many of the riders met at Bolney before travelling to Gatwick Manor Hotel in convoy, many riders and vehicles decorated in fancy dress. There they handed over toys, books and games to the Golden Lion Children’s Trust before enjoying seasonal refreshments.
Steve Taylor, Secretary of the charity, said
“We never fail to be amazed at the support from the various motor cycle clubs whose members take part in this annual event. Their generosity allows us to help a large number of children with special needs and disadvantaged young people. On Sunday afternoon GLCT wrapped 520 presents for children. The bikers have been doing this for 22 years, supporting the GLCT for most of that time. The great team at Gatwick Manor Hotel offer us their hospitality for the day and together we can be sure that our Late Christmas Party in early January 2014 will be a great success for the local children we help. We also are grateful once again to MayDay Solutions and Easistore for their help with storing Santa’s sacks.”
In the afternoon the Golden Lion Children’s Trust ‘elves’ worked in ‘Santa’s grotto’ for the afternoon, wrapping presents for the children who will enjoy the GLCT party.
Lynda Guy Chairman said “This is the 40th birthday year of the GLCT. Through the generosity of the bikers plus Crawley News readers through their Annual Toy Appeal it means that we are able to invite more children to the party this year and send more presents home than other years to children unable to attend the party. It is incredible that in spite of so many people struggling this year, local people can show such kindness and still ‘care to share’ with the GLCT.”