THIS year’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Bike Ride was the largest event yet in Dorset. 

More than 1,000 motorcyclists took to the streets of Bournemouth and Poole on May 19 to raise money for men’s mental health and prostate cancer charities – smashing last year’s numbers by about 100. 

Organisers said more than £90,000 was raised for charity on the day, ranking sixth overall out of 958 cities globally that took part. 

Bournemouth-based co-host and Brewhouse and Kitchen chief Kris Gumbrell said: “The new route meant that we were able to engage with more communities, including Westbourne, Southbourne, Pokesdown and Boscombe.  

Bournemouth Echo: Distinguished Gentleman's Bike Ride 2024

“The feedback and support we received has been incredible, all of our riders and organising team were incredibly grateful to the communities of Bournemouth and Poole who came out to support and cheer us on and gave generously on the day, which along with the riders sponsorship and contributions made by our food and drink providers (at the post ride event), helped us raise a record £90,834.  

“The team would like to thank the incredible support of all or stewards, marshals, the doc bike team, BCP Council, the mayors for Bournemouth and Poole, Dorset Police, all of our kind sponsors and also those who took part, who made the ride the most amazing spectacle.” 

Next year’s ride is set to be held on Sunday, May 18.

“We will have to cap our numbers again, so we would ask everyone keen to join us to save the date,” Kris added. 

Last year’s spectacular ride had more than 900 bikers take to the street and raised more than £80,000 for prostate cancer research charities.