HOW’S about this for a wheely-impressive finale?
Ninety years of a much-loved motorbike display team came to a blazing end with a top-notch performance in front of VIPs and other invited guests.
The Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team, known as the White Helmets, gave it their all in their last ever performance at their home at Blandford Camp.
Picture: FINNBARR WEBSTER PHOTOGRAPHY
The 23 members, who ride classic 750cc Triumph Tigers, wear full dress uniform and perform a range of stunts including forming a motorcycle human pyramid, cycling backwards while juggling and bursting through a hoop of fire.
Earlier this year, the Army said 2017 would be the team’s last season as the unit no longer reflects the Signals in a digital age.
The Echo reported last week how the team received a rousing send-off as they performed spectacular stunts in a farewell ceremony in Blandford town centre, their last ever public performance.
Thousands of people, including local schoolchildren and civic dignitaries, lined the streets in the sunshine, cheering and waving flags.
Then at the weekend an invite-only show was held in front of a big crowd including military top brass at the nearby Army camp.
Speaking last week, Team Sergeant Mike Arnold explained how the team had performed around 30 displays this season and that many members were sad to see the end of the White Helmets.
He said: “I have been second-in-command for two years and I have a loved every minute of it.”
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