ORGANISERS of Dorset's Action on Addiction Motorcycle Ride say they have taken a tough decision to postpone the event due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The charity bike rally has raised almost £3,000 for Clouds House, a rehab centre near Shaftesbury that treats anyone affected by drug, drink or gambling addiction, organised by Bikers for Action South West.

It was founded by Wendy and John Bramble in memory of their son Craig, who sadly passed away in 2001 from solvent abuse.

The event sees bikers deck themselves and their bikes out in bright colours for a six-hour ride from the Granby Industrial Estate in Chickerell along the coast road to West Bay for refreshments, before continuing on to Exmouth Football Club for a barbecue.

Originally due to take place on April 19, the ride has now been rescheduled for Sunday September 13 this year.

John Bramble said: "This last week has been a very tough one on knowing what to do for the best regarding the ride during this coronavirus outbreak - my head has been all over the place - this hasn't been an easy decision to make but in the height of this virus I have no choice it's truly out of my hands.

"I want to thank you all for your support so and it hope it continues to the new date of September 13, I've been in touch with all venues and they are 100 per cent behind us, and with us for the new date. The fundraising effort from you all has nearly topped £3,000 through your donations and merchandise sales - well done, fantastic effort so far.

"I do hope there will be no negativity and that you understand my decision to postpone and reschedule the ride. By doing this I honestly believe we will get more numbers attending the later date, rather than risking the April event and putting everyone's health at risk and their families, which I do not want to do.

"Thank you everyone for your continual support and again my deepest apologies, be safe, look after yourselves and your families."