BIKERS clad in Santa and elf suits may have raised a few eyebrows on the streets of Teignmouth last Sunday.

The Devon Highwaymen Bikers were finishing a charity Santa Ride at the town’s Whistle Stop Café after a two hour trip across Dartmoor to raise funds for the the town’s Alice Cross fundraising appeal to provide a festive lunch and treats on Christmas Day to local people in need or living alone.

‘When I saw the Facebook fundraising appeal, I hated the thought of people being on their own at Christmas,’ said organiser Jamie Buckley.

‘I messaged the Devon Highwaymen and they were on board immediately, with everyone agreeing to donate £10, the cost of a Christmas meal and gift for one person, to join the ride out on December 4.’

There was a welcoming party waiting for the bikers at The Whistle Stop cheering as they appeared.

‘It really was an uplifting sight to see the bikers arrive in their bright red Santa suits,’ said Jackie O’Brien, general manager of The Alice Cross Centre who had popped along to greet the bikers with volunteers from the centre.

‘We wanted to show our appreciation and say thank you to the Devon Highwaymen for their generous support on what was a particularly chilly day.’

Once the bikers had warmed up they presented Jackie with £280, the grand total raised from the ride.

‘This money will help a lot of people enjoy Christmas Day,’ added The Alice Cross Centre’s Peta Howell. ‘We really appreciate it and can’t say a big enough thank you.’

If you or anybody you know would like to go to The Alice Cross for Christmas day lunch, please book your place on 01626 778039 or email [email protected]. Transport is available if required.