By Isle of Wight Observer
Christmas came early for the children in St Mary’s Hospital, as some very special Santas rode up on their motorised ‘sleighs’ to deliver lots of gifts.
The Island’s motor cyclists and scooterists turn out in force, with more than 100 taking part in the annual Toy Run. They delivered three adult cot-loads of presents to the St Mary’s Children’s Ward, Special Care Baby Unit, and even the doctors and nurses.
The ride is organised by Buster Spicer, who was unable to take part this year because of an operation on a detached retina. But, now out of hospital, he said: “My pal, Les Vallender, took the lead in his decorated trike, along with the rest of the FR3 Group, who were in Santa outfits and their bikes were decorated in tinsel.
“They started from the Spithead Industrial Estate, in Lake, and went through the streets of Newport before arriving at the hospital where they were greeted by medics. We had three adult cots filled to the brim with presents.
“I ask the people taking part to supply a present to the cost of, say, £5, for a three- to seven-year-old child and then wrap them up. Last year we were asked by the Special Care Baby Unit if we could supply some items for them, so we give them things like nappies and bottles; it makes what we do even more special.
“As for me? I had to go into hospital at the last minute for my eye operation, and I’m now undressing my bike which was all decorated, but, in the end, had nowhere to go!”