RUMBLING was heard on Cleethorpes seafront as thousands of bikes descended for the resort's annual motorcycle rally.
Hundreds of visitors from across the country looked on enviously at the spectacular array of motorcycles – new and old – at Ferg's Grand Day Out organised by North East Lincolnshire Motorcycle Action Group (NELMAG).
The event, which has been renamed in memory of former NELMAG chairman Fergus O'Connell, who died last year, included a motorcycle "beauty" contest, live music from local musicians and a visit from Humberside Police's Bike Safe team.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to NELMAG and the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance.
Ron Hall, from Grimsby, organised the Custom Show at the event, which featured a range of motorcycles from street bikes to side cars.
"It's a way to show off your bike – it's a bit like a beauty contest," said Ron, who owns a Ural – a Russian bike with a side car.
"It's difficult to judge what makes a motorbike beautiful – it's whatever you like.
"I have been into bikes for 55 years and it's just a way of life and something I have always enjoyed."
Ron, who worked at the Royal Corps of Transport, is part of the Armed Forces Bike Club.
"I like the friendships you gain from it and I have been coming to this event for four years now," he added.
"There is an excellent turnout ... what more do you want – there's live music, food and bikes!"
Playing at the Kingsway Kiosk during the event were Rick Emsley, The Nomads, Roger Beard, Les Wood and many more.
Organiser Alf Jobling, 47, from Cleethorpes, said the day was buzzing with trade stands, plenty of bikes and food.
"People travel from all over the country to come to this show," said Alf, who is a member of NELMAG.
"The generosity of people has been amazing, with a number of businesses donating prizes for the raffle and musicians playing for free. We hope to raise thousands for NELMAG and the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance. Last year we raised money for Help For Heroes.
"I love everything about bikes and you meet some really good people through it."
Keen biker Debbie O'Brien, from Lincoln, went to the popular event. She said: "Everyone has been talking about it, which is why we came.
"I have met friends here, too, and it's for such a great cause. It's the first time I've been here and I've really enjoyed it.
"I love being on two wheels because you feel so free. I like going past all the queues. I have a Suzuki Intruder and a FZR 750."
ON THE WEB: For more pictures from the event, visit www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk
