Scooter and motorcycle clubs in York united for a special run marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

The York Inset Scooter Club and the Yorvik Vikings motorcycle club set off from the Yorkshire Air Museum in Elvington this morning (Thursday, May 8).

Nick Beilby, from the scooter club, said the museum opened early for the riders, who viewed the Handley Page Halifax and Dakota Second World War aircraft.

He said they also “had the honour” of speaking to Falklands war veteran Martin Withers.

The group rode to Murton Park via Melbourne, Pocklington and Stamford Bridge, passing three former bomber command airfields.

“At Murton Park we observed two minutes silence and remembered all those who served on land, sea, and the home front. Without their sacrifice we would not be enjoying the life we do and riding our bikes and scooters in freedom,” Nick said.


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He added that they will be repeating the day on Friday, August 15, to commemorate VJ Day (Victory over Japan Day).

Nick is also helping to organise a VE Day service at St Lawrence Parish Church in Lawrence Street from 6.30pm on Sunday (May 11).

He said the service is open to all.

“It’s immensely important because we have to mark the 80th anniversary and the veterans are getting fewer and fewer,” Nick said.