Thames Valley Motorcycle Lodge No.9885

Sunday December 8th on Reading Toy Run

The Reading Toy Run in support of the Barnardo’s Christmas Appeal happened on Sunday 9th December and a contingent of 15 Berkshire Freemasons mostly from TVML helped marshal the event.

The Toy Run, which is in its 34th year, attracts up to 1,500 riders from all over the country and is holder of the Guinness Record for the world’s largest toy run. The route runs from the Wood plc building, formerly Foster Wheeler, to High Close School in Wokingham and requires around 160 marshals to assist in the road closure. Many thousands of spectators line the route and it has become an eagerly anticipated event in the area.

The run supports the Barnardo’s organisation, and results in many thousands of toys being donated which are distributed throughout the UK as gifts for the children, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year.

The Berkshire chaps were joined by a substantial contingent from the Buckinghamshire Province.

Steve Harris, the Chief Marshal and a member of Sons of Kendrick No. 8362 said: “It was a good turnout from Berkshire Freemasons and their help was greatly appreciated.”

Ian Hopgood, IPM, said: “It was a wonderful day, very well supported by Freemasons from Berkshire and Buckinghamshire and the event will make a significant difference to Christmas for 100’s of children.”