A POPULAR fundraising event which attracts thousands of bikers and spectators to Monmouthshire will have a new venue for its 18th year.

The Hoggin’ the Bridge rally will follow its traditional route from Aust across the Severn Bridge before finishing at Caldicot Castle for the first time on Sunday, October 18.

The event, which has a few bike escorting people during a sponsored walk, has since raised thousands for local and national charities since starting in 2000.

Last year, more than 1,600 bikers rode through Chepstow, Caldicot, Magor, Undy and Rogiet before finishing at Chepstow Racecourse.

A bike show would traditionally follow the ride at the venue, with food outlets, trading stalls and entertainment being provided.

But the fundraiser’s new location will represent a “better deal” for participants, traders and spectators according to Aaron Reeks, who has been a Hoggin’ the Bridge committee member for seven years.

Mr Reeks, who also serves as a director for Caldicot Town Team, said: “It’s fantastic news for Caldicot as well as Hoggin’ the Bridge and the charities that we raise money for.

“We have got members from the old committee and some new blood and we are all committed to putting on this very exciting event.

“We’re delighted to bring it to Caldicot Castle to showcase the wonderful facilities that is has.”

Earlier in its history, the bike show would take place on Chepstow high street and last October, the Argus reported calls for the event to return to the town centre.

A petition by Sedbury resident Austin Lee said that the change of venue to the racecourse had taken trade from small, independent businesses along the high street.

According to Mr Reeks, the new event will be a more attractive prospect for traders and local businesses from Caldicot, Chepstow and further afield.

“We’re encouraging businesses from all over to take part, the castle offers us more flexibility than what we once had,” he said.

“It allows us to bring in who we want, and in particular more businesses for our stalls.”

According to John Palmer, owner of BigBoar Motorcycles in Chepstow, there were plans to scrap the event following its 17th run.

Mr Palmer, a Hoggin' the Bridge committee member for four years, said: "Being a part of the annual process is fairly time consuming and some people just wanted to move on.

"We brought some new members on board and decided to carry it on as it's something that's raised more than £100,000 since it started.

"Having it at the castle will give us more control over who goes in and who goes out, so we're looking forward to it."