Thousands of motorcyclists set to visit the National Memorial Arboretum for Ride to the Wall 2024
Thousands of motorcyclists from across the UK will come together at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire for the annual Ride to the Wall, a special event to honour and remember the names engraved on the Armed Forces Memorial. Since 2008, motorcyclists of all ages have participated in this unique pilgrimage, paying tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for their country.
The event will take place from 9am to 5pm, with a Service of Remembrance held at the Armed Forces Memorial, allowing participants a moment to reflect and remember those who ‘no longer ride by our side.’
Ride to the Wall is a registered charity and suggests a voluntary donation of £10 from each rider. Since its inception, more than £1.66 million has been donated by Ride to the Wall to support the year-round work of the Arboretum.
On Saturday 5 October, a park and ride facility will be in operation. All cars arriving at the Arboretum will be directed to the park and ride at Alrewas Showground (DE13 7EW). Visitors are encouraged to follow event signage and marshals’ directions.
All visitors arriving on foot or by car (without registering for Ride to the Wall) must pre-book parking. A £4 per vehicle charge applies for advance bookings, or £6 on the day. Shuttle services will transport visitors from the showground to the Arboretum, with all shuttles being wheelchair accessible and able to accommodate standard mobility scooters.
Interview Opportunities
The following will be available for interview:
- Philippa Rawlinson, Director of the National Memorial Arboretum
- Martin Dickinson, Founder of Ride to the Wall
- Families of service personnel commemorated on the Armed Forces Memorial
Key Timings:
9.45am: First riders arrive
Noon: Performance by the British Army Band Catterick
12.40pm: Flag bearing party arrives
2.00pm: Service commences
2.30pm: Wreath Laying
2.45pm: End of Service
Media accreditation:
Please contact Helen Dubber on 07774 400503 or helen.dubber@teamtala.com to accredit in advance of the event.
Media attending the event will need a parking permit issued by TALA to secure passage through the road closure at the entrance to the Arboretum. It will not be possible to drive through the road closure after the first riders begin arriving at 9.45am.