ANGRY bikers have rejected claims they are disrespecting the people of Wootton Bassett by staging a procession through the town on Sunday.

Yesterday the Adver reported how up to 15,000 riders with pillion passengers were planning a mass tribute to the Afghan war dead.

It would bring together motorcyclists from around the country, including many ex-servicemen, who felt moved to make the gesture on Mothering Sunday.

But plans for the event have been attacked amid claims that the town’s residents were not consulted and that the noise, traffic and congestion would be disruptive.

Yesterday, a number of the participants voiced their outrage at the way their tribute was being depicted.

They objected to being dismissed as “hairy bikers”, and emphasised that they would not ”tear” through the town but would stage a procession within the speed limit.

Paul Ellison contacted the Adver to say: “This ride is non-political and is nothing to do with if we should be at war in Afghanistan or not. So to call this a political rally is both offensive and unprofessional without first finding out the facts.”

Dawn Roberts, of Swindon, said: “I am not a ‘hairy biker’, I am a mum and nor do I have a political agenda. The whole reason for this organised motorbike ride is to raise funds for Afghan Heroes charity.

“This ride is supported wholeheartedly by a wide variety of the community regardless of gender, political persuasion, sexuality or race.”

Jo Burridge commented: “Yes, it’s true residents in the villages haven’t been informed of the situation, and yes I live in one of those villages where the 10,000 plus bikes will be driving through and no I’m not against it.

“It’s for charity. Imagine, 10,000 bikers each buying their flag, sticker, patch and imagine how much money that will raise to support those who are devastated by this war.”

Other readers echoed the sentiments while insisting that the people of Wootton Bassett had been consulted over the event.

Police say they will have a strong presence on the day and the riders would go through the town’s High Street in batches to avoid problems.

Wiltshire police yesterday sought to clarify its position on the event.

A spokesman said: “I would like to clarify that Wiltshire Police did not sanction this bike ride. Unless there is a threat to public safety, the police do not have a legal right to object to rides such as this taking place.

“Therefore, as our first priority is public safety, we have been working closely with the organisers of the ride, Wiltshire Council, the MoD and other partners to ensure that the necessary safeguards are in place to ensure public safety, particularly for road users. Any actions which compromise public safety on the day will not be tolerated.”