Thousands of bikers will descend on Hulllavington Airfield next month on Mother's Day to take part in an organised ride to raise money for the charity, Afghan Heroes.

Around 14,000 bikers are expected to meet at Hullavington Airfield and continue on a route that leads them through Wootton Bassett, which has become a regulare news headline following their repatriation services to honour soldiers killed in the war.

The bikers will make their way along the following route, beginning at Hullavington nr, Chippenham: A429 (north west to Burton Hill), B4042 (Priory Roundabout to Callows Cross), Callow Hill to White Hill Lane and the A3102 to Wootton Bassett. Once at the Wootton Bassett roundabout the riders will disperse.

Registration for this event has now closed and any non-registered bikers will not be able to take part in the ride. However, if they still wish to make a donation this can be done via the Afghan Heroes website www.afghanheroes.org.uk.

Chief Inspector Owen Gillard said: “As a force we fully support Afghan Heroes and the excellent work that they do.

“It’s wonderful to see so many bikers registered to take part in this event for such a worthy cause, however other motorists who are planning to travel along the proposed route that day should be aware that traffic delays are likely and I would urge them to consider other routes.

We are working closely with the organisers of this ride, the MOD and Wiltshire Council to make sure that the necessary safeguards are in place to ensure public safety on the day, which is our number one priority.”

Although the bikers will not be completing the course at the same time, it is likely that traffic delays may ensue throughout the day and therefore alternative routes should be found wherever possible.

In particular, the public should note that there will be temporary traffic lights two miles north of junction 17 on the A429 near the entrance to Hullavington Airfield.

Councillor **** Tonge, cabinet member for highways at Wiltshire Council, said: “Such an event being organised in Wiltshire recognises the efforts of the people of Wiltshire in honouring the fallen service men and women during the repatriation services through Wootton Bassett.

“We have worked closely with the police and organisers to ensure the route used by the bikers provides the least disruption possible and is safe for other motorists on the highway.”