Close to 600 bikers took to the road for the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance annual Motorcycle Run and Family Fun Day on Sunday (May20).

After the pillion had completed the 60 mile route from Hertfordshire Police HQ in Welwyn to the finish at North Weald Airfield in Essex, the day's guest of honour Steve Tiller addressed the crowd.

The 28 year-old was airlifted after an accident four years ago in Ongar.

Having been motored into the show by 30 police outriders, Mr Tiller said: "Now we know how the Royal Family felt at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding.

" It was awesome being led out by the police outriders.

"The roundabouts were shut down and we were able to go straight through. It was a really good day.

“When we arrived at North Weald airfield we saw the helicopter land then take off straight away. It reminds you just how much the air ambulance is needed.”

Simon crashed on his way to work after his motorbike skidded on a greasy patch of road, suffering injuries that included a broken back and a major blow to the head.

He added: "I don’t remember what happened, but fortunately the air ambulance was only two minutes away.

"The first person on the scene was an off-duty fireman, so I was incredibly lucky.”

While the day had added significance for Mr Tiller, most were there to enjoy the attractions on offer, including displays by stunt riding team On the Edge, skidbike demonstrations, static bike displays, live music, an inflatables zone, supercar experiences and trade stalls.

Fay Boissieux, events manager at Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, said: “The Motorcycle Run is always a fabulous event and this year’s has been no exception.

“With so many exciting things for people to enjoy, there was no shortage of things to do and having such a beautiful sunny day was great too.

“We’re extremely grateful to everyone in the biking community who has turned out to support our life-saving work, and to all the people who have turned out along the route and at the finish to support them.

Details of the charity's next Essex Motorcycle Run and Family Fun Day on September 9 can be found at www.ehaat.org