MAUCHLINE roared to the sound of high performance bikes on Easter Saturday the Hillbillies Motorcycle Club set off on their annual Easter Egg Run to Crosshouse Hospital Children’s Unit. This year a fantastic 210 bikes turned out for the run - more than double the turn-out in previous years.

This record number of bikers, made up of members of 14 clubs and individuals, came from all over the West of Scotland and meant that the Hillbillies were able to present a cheque for £1600 to the staff and families at the Unit.

As well as thanking everyone who took part, the Hillbillies would like to say a special thanks to Police Scotland, especially the Motorcycle unit, for helping ensure that everyone got through the run safely.

Hillbillies President Lez Ritchie said: “This was a fantastic turnout no doubt helped by the great weather. “The police told me that the run was over a mile long and I’d like to thank everyone who took part in making the day a success and for their generosity. “It will be a challenge to equal it next year but we will do our best!” Local MP Cathy Jamieson said: “The Hillbillies Easter Egg Run from Mauchline to Crosshouse Hospital is a brilliant event. It was good to see so many people in Mauchline turn out to see the bikers off and Police Scotland Motorcycle squad ensured it went smoothly. The Hillbillies are to be congratulated for raising this fantastic amount for the Children’s Unit and the way they continue to do a huge amount for local good causes.”