An Olympic torchbearer is joining forces with bike cops this week to help promote this year's Durham Police ‘BikeWise’ event.
The family fun day is being held at police HQ, Aykley Heads next Sunday, 1st July. It’s the 18th such event and is again expected to attract a crowd of up to 12,000 visitors from 10am to mid-afternoon.
Entry is just £2 for adults and children under 16 get in for free, with all proceeds going to local good causes once costs have been met.
The show is normally held later in the summer but has been brought forward this year to avoid a clash with other events, including the 2012 Olympics.
But one of the attractions at this year's BikeWise has a close link to the Games, as 17-year-old Jordan Parker was one of the torchbearers when the relay passed through Langley Park earlier this month.
Jordan, a student at Wolsingham School and Community College will be bringing his Olympic torch to BikeWise on Sunday afternoon and is expected to run with the torch down the main drive through the Aykley Heads complex.
He will be flanked by guest riders including TT legend John McGuinness and Steve Brogan from the event and will have a police escort from the motorcycle cops who helped guide the torch across its recent stay in the north east.
Other attractions at this year's 'BikeWise' include stunt riders Dave Coates and Steve Colley, exhibitions and riders allied to major manufacturers such as Triumph, Kawasaki, Honda, and BMW, a visit from the north east police helicopter and a display from the force's dog section.
Also attending will be Tyneside-based HM Plant, supporters of the bike section's 'BikeWise Training' scheme and mini-bike club for young riders.
“Over the years BikeWise has become a popular attraction not just for motorcycle enthusiasts but many others who just enjoy a great day out. We are keeping our fingers crossed for decent weather and hope we get the crowds we have come to expect,” said Sgt Iain Rodgers, head of the force motorcycle team.
