Bikers riding out in memory of soldiers

Castleford-based Crusaders, a group of motorcyclists who support military charities, have offered to take wreaths or mementos to Ypres on behalf of living relatives of soldiers whose graves or memorials are located in the region.

The group will be taking part in the Royal British Legion’s Great Pilgrimage 90 Parade and One Hundred Days Ceremony, which will visit battlefields of the Somme and Ypres before marching on to the Menin Gate.

Crusaders chairman Brett Muscroft said: “I think it will mean a lot to people lot to know that their relatives are not forgotten. In my eyes they will never be forgotten and events like this it can help younger people see what older generations have done.

“A lot of people will never be able to go to the memorials and if family members are able to give us something to take, even just a poppy with the name of who they knew, we can take a photograph of the tribute and we hope it can be like they were their to place it themselves.”

Former solider Mr Muscroft said the Crusaders was a way for like-minded people to combine a love of motorbikes with their passion for supporting members of the armed forces, both past and present.

The parade in Ypres will follow the same path as a march for families and veterans which took place in 1928.

Anyone who would like to pass on a tribute can call Mr Muscroft on 07787 171842 or contact the Crusaders via their Facebook page.

Meanwhile, the YEP will this Friday start a major series to mark the centenary of the Armistice. Beginning with 100 days to go until the centenary, it will cover exhibitions, concerts, church services and other projects taking place to commemorate the events of November 11, 1918.

The Armistice 100 series will also feature stories of Leeds soldiers and their bravery.