Annual tribute returns with route through Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton
Hundreds of motorcyclists are expected to take part in a memorial ride this Sunday (18 May) in honour of two Middleton soldiers, Lee Rigby and Scott Hetherington, as well as all fallen service personnel.
The ride will begin at Asda in Rochdale, with bikers setting off at 11am. The route will take them through Heywood and on to Middleton Memorial Gardens, where a service will be held. Refreshments will follow at Middleton Masonic Hall.
The annual event began in memory of Fusilier Lee Rigby, who was killed in Woolwich, London in 2013. In recent years, it has also remembered Corporal Scott Hetherington, who died in Iraq in 2017, as well as others who have lost their lives in military service.
Organisers are welcoming all types of bikes, including scooters, trikes and learner riders. 2025 memorial patches and merchandise will be available on the day.
The ride attracts participants from across the country, and similar events will also take place in places like London and Hastings.
A spokesperson said: “This is about showing respect and riding together. Whether you’re on a bike or just coming to support, everyone’s welcome.”
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