5:35pm Sunday 14th March 2010
By Emma Streatfield
A TOWN used to silent tributes reverberated to the noise of motorcycle engines today as around 15,000 bikers poured through the town.
They were paying tribute to Wootton Bassett for the part it plays in welcoming home fallen soldiers from Afghanistan after they have been repatriated at RAF Lyneham.
The motorcyclists had gathered at RAF Hullavington early in the day and made their way in batches of 500 to the town, where they were greeted by cheering townsfolk lining the streets.
Wootton Bassett mayor Steve Bucknell said: “I hadn’t expected this many people to turn up.
“We have had to stand out here in the High Street in stillness and silence too many times over the last few weeks.
“It’s a welcome change to see lots of movement and noise and people smiling.”
Bikers had come from all over the country to take part in the event, with around £100,000 expected to be raised for the charity Afghan Heroes.
Juliet Stevenson, who helped organise the event, said: “What better day than today, Mother’s Day, to celebrate the sacrifice that our men and women have made in defence of freedom.
“Today is our chance to salute our heroes.”
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