UP TO 10,000 bikers will pass through Royal Wootton Bassett on Mothering Sunday in what organisers are hoping will be the most successful Ride of Respect to date.

The event, which was started two years ago, was aimed at commemorating the servicemen and women killed in Afghanistan and Iraq as well as a way to thank townspeople for the respect shown during repatriations.

So far the event has raised more than £250,000 for charities and this year’s ride will be the last time it passes through the town.

Repatriations moved to RAF Brize Norton last September after almost four years at RAF Lyneham.

Royal British Legion projects manager Mark Dommett, who is supporting the ride, said: “We expect this year’s ride to be the most successful yet and we’re thrilled to be raising money for 10 fantastic Service charities.

“Without the support of Royal Wootton Bassett, the Ride of Respect would not be possible.

“We’re very grateful to have the well wishes of so many local people and organisations.”

The event, started by grandmothers Anne Cole and Juliet Stevenson, has triggered a number of smaller rides elsewhere in the country, as well as in Europe and the United States.

Among the charities set to benefit from the ride, which starts from Hullavington Airfield, are Walking with the Wounded, The Forces Children’s Trust, SSAFA, The Army Benevolent Fund and Adam’s Hoofing Hut.

Riders will set off in batches of 700 from the airfield from 9am on March 18 and head through Corston to the Burton Hill roundabout at Malmesbury before turning towards Brinkworth, Callow Hill and Royal Wootton Bassett.

The High Street will be closed during the event, which has prompted objections from some residents.

Coun Alison Bucknell (Con, Lyneham) said in a letter: “It is Mothering Sunday and people feel it is about time they were actually allowed to respect their own families without the interruption. They want to be able to go to church without having a road closure,” she said.

“It’s not the bikes, it is the fact that the road is going to be closed.”

In response, organiser Julia Stevenson said: “We have been in talks since last August and we asked people in Royal Wootton Bassett whether they wanted us. The majority said they would love to have us back.

“This will be the last mass ride through Royal Wootton Bassett.

“We don’t want to upset anybody. While we can’t please everybody it is making a huge difference to our troops as a fundraiser.”