April 12th - delays expected around M25 as up to 7,000 bikers descend on motorway in mass rally to Westminster

The protest has been organised by armed forces veterans from across the country - In support of Soldier F .

• 11:52, 11 APR 2019

The huge rideout has been organised for Friday, April 12 (Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

Thousands of motorcyclists are due to descend on the M25.
As well as the usual Friday traffic, commuters will be joined by as many as 7,000 bikers taking part in a protest on the busy motorway.
The demonstration will see riders drive all the way to Westminster on Friday (April 12) from areas such as Kent and Essex.
The rally has been organised by armed forces veterans in support of a 77-year-old former soldier who has been charged with murder over his part in Bloody Sunday, Kent Live reports.
He faces two murder charges relating to deaths in Londonderry in 1972.
Here is everything you need to know about the rally.
 

Where will the M25 be affected?

Bikers will meet at various M25 service stations before the rideout (Image: PA)

 

Participants in the demonstration plan on making their way to Westminster after meeting at various points between 11am and noon.
Those meeting points are thought to include Thurrock, Clacket Lane and South Mimms Services on the M25, London Gateway Services on the M1 and Heston Services on the M4.
Rider Fred Staszewski wrote on Facebook saying: "Just a heads up, please be aware that this Friday 12th April there will be many motorcycles on ALL roads leading to London.
"There are groups of riders coming from the 4 corners of the country and it is estimated that 7,000 bikes will be in attendance.
"There are 5 designated assembly points around the M25 before the push into central London.
"Please take extra care out there on Friday and watch out for the bikers."

 

As many as 7,000 bikers

The Facebook group has gained a lot of support, with over 12,000 people joining the page.
One of the organisers, Christopher Davies, commented: "Rolling Thunder in support of Soldier F motorcycle ride taking place on Friday 12th April should be quite spectacular.
"The Facebook page has exceeded 12,000 since its inception in a couple of weeks.
"A possible 7,000 motorbikes will be converging on London mostly ridden by veterans although anyone is welcome on the ride."
Met Police is thought to be working with organisers to ensure the rally runs smoothly.

https://www.mylondon.news/news/zone-1-news/m25-traffic-westminster-16113279?fbclid=IwAR3wfKU2KRUolMwJjtpBbzK0b3akJL3OySYic9pjDNKpw6OvkKhClN_jaWA

One of the riders wrote;

 It is not a PROTEST, it is a ride in solidarity to bring attention to the INJUSTICE of the prosecution of veterans of Operation Banner (Northern Ireland) and the release under the Good Friday agreement which saw CONVICTED terrorists freed from jail while there is a 'witch hunt' being performed against veterans for doing their DUTY. 

This ride is NON POLITICAL. We just want the general public and those in Parliament to be aware of this situation. Those in power send our troops to trouble spots all over the world, but then do not support their actions at a later date.

SHAME ON THEM