Bikers' Toy Run, 26th November 2023
350 motorcycles roared into Grantham on November 26th bringing over 900 toys, games, puzzles, books and chocolates. These were piled high on tables at the Meres Leisure Centre where they were received by the Mayor of Grantham, Mark Whittington and Deputy Mayor, Charmaine Morgan.
The toy run was started 33 years ago by John Bartlett and friends of the Nottingham Triumph Owners M.C.C. Originally, the toys were brought to the Guildhall, directly to the Mayor's Parlour. The event outgrew this venue and about 25 years ago the Salvation Army were asked to distribute the toys. At first, the toys were sorted in the garage of Brenda and Stuart Snowball but they soon had to move the task to the Salvation Army Citadel on London Road. When the Citadel was sold, Stuart Snowball, a regular attender of one of our Sabbath School Bible study classes, asked us if we would take over the distribution. We agreed to take up the baton. This year, the 33rd toy run was our 10th.
The toys were bagged up by our volunteers, Charter Trustees, District Councillors and Police cadets. Then they were transported to our church and sorted onto 12 tables, overflowing to the floor, as well as a couple of pews of soft toys. During the week, 17 organisations working with children in Grantham collected the toys to share with families who may be struggling or in need of support, encouragement and a little joy during this season of giving.
