MOTORCYCLISTS who set off from Wrexham on a grand tour of the UK's capital cities have raised more than £12,000 for charity.

Jason Lewis, 47, from Coedpoeth is the organiser of this year's RIDE Cymru event which has raised thousands of pounds for Macmillan Cancer.

The bikers started their grand tour in Wrexham High Street, paying homage to Evil Knievel by dressing up as the famous stunt biker to launch their trek at the beginning of last month.

Their challenge was one of endurance and not for the faint-hearted as they rode 10-hours-a-day for five consecutive days, keeping off motorways and keeping off the back roads.

Mr Lewis said he was proud of the group's fundraising and described the highlights of their time on the road.

He said: "We have raised a record £12,500 on this year's event which has amazed all of us and Macmillan.

"This is over £5,000 more than our previous best year in 2017. Since our first RIDE Cymru in 2012 we have now raised over £46,500.

"This years event was helped by a large number of entrants - boosted by arranging special guests and special venues between the three mainland UK Capital cities.

"Isle of Man TT record holder John McGuinness met with entrants in Morecambe on our way to Scotland.

"Our next guest was Steve Parrish the motorcycle racing legend and ex team mate of the late Barry Sheene, who made time to meet our Knievel clad crew in Cambridge.

"TV weather presenter Ruth Wignall met with us all at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. Our special venues included Knockhill Circuit in Scotland where we enjoyed several laps.

"Olivers Mount Circuit in Scarborough welcomed our group during their Festival of Speed weekend. The world famous Brooklands - the birthplace of motorsport opened their doors for us in London and allowed us to motorcycle the famous banked section of what was in 1907 the world's first custom built race circuit.

"We also had a very warm welcome at the famous Ace Cafe London where we met Macmillan London. Likewise we had a street fundraiser with Macmillan Scotland in Edinburgh and Macmillan Cymru in Cardiff."

Mr Lewis added that their efforts are set to be recognised later this month.

He said: "On Saturday, June 30 all entrants will come together to celebrate the end of event evening with Macmillan Cancer Support in attendance.

"This year it is held at the RAFA Club, Canalside Gardens, Llangollen and starts 8pm. All supporters of our events are welcome to attend - likewise anyone interested in learning about next years event The RIDE Cymru 2019 are welcome to attend and chat about our events.

"In 2019 we return to undertake our trademark RIDE Cymru and in 2020 we take our event to the Isle of Man for RIDE Manx."