HUNDREDS of bikers descended on Chepstow today as a popular fundraising event celebrated its 17th year.

Residents waved riders on for the ‘Hoggin the Bridge’ rally as machines great and small swept over the Old Severn Bridge on to route Chepstow Racecourse via Magor, Undy, Rogiet and Caldicot.

As live bands belted out rock covers ranging from ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ to Lynyrd Skynyrd's 'Free Bird’, an empty car park was transformed into a sea of colour and chrome with a staggering 1,600 bikers attending.

This year, Hoggin the Bridge supported Meningitis Now as its main charity while also raising money for charities ranging from ‘Blood Bikes' and St Johns’ Ambulance to Wales Air Ambulance.

John and Philomena Snook, of Edmond Locard Court, Chepstow, enjoyed perusing the bike displays and added that the traffic management and lack of disruption to residents was “excellent”.

Mr Snook, 67, said: “Unlike the Velothon, there seems to be very little disruption and everyone seems to get on with everybody,” he said.

Mrs Snook added: “I think it's good for the town and is very enjoyable, plus they’re fundraising for charity which is very important.”

While bike shops, biker clothing and succulent grub were the main event for many, Gwent Police, South Wales Fire and Rescue and ‘Go Safe’ also attended to educate visitors about road safety.

The main attraction was undoubtedly the bikes, trikes and scooters — each with a unique design and story.

Matthew Deely, 23, of Bridgend, saved a Gilera Coguar from the scrap heap for £300, investing another £300 to return it to working order — mounted bull head included.

Meanwhile, youth worker Luke Newman, 43, of Bristol-based group ‘Woodie’s Bikers’, attended with a 1979 Jawa bike and sidecar, a vehicle formerly used by Czech military “along the front of the so-called Iron Curtain”.

“It’s always nice to get here and make a positive presence,” he said.

A spokesman for the ‘Hoggin The Bridge’ committee — who have been running the event for the past seven years — said they were overwhelmed at the show of support from the public.

“It’s always a great success and it’s amazing to see the variety of bikers that turn up,” he said.

“Most bikers are more than happy for visitors to have a look at their bikes and since moving to the Chepstow Racecourse as a venue, it’s great to have everything in one location”.

Although fundraising totals are still being counted, organisers believe that they are on track to smash £100,000 — the total raised over all 17 ‘Hoggin The Bridge’ events.

The committee will also hold an official cheque presentation ceremony for their chosen charities next month.