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	Toy Run 24 November 2001 Manchester to Trafford Centre Toy Run. The annual Salvation Army toy run was well attended today (24 November). It's difficult to say exactly how many bikers took part simply because many riders tagged onto the event without signing on officially. I don't think the organisers were too bothered though! Estimates varied between 350 to 450 bikers all there for a good time, to meet friends and help a good cause. The prosession of bikes, trikes and outfits was escorted throught the damp streets of Manchester by a posse of fine Coppers. The pace was a little slow for many - hitting a top speed of maybe 20mph throughout the entire one hour journey. It was very cool, to be among all those bikes honking their way along Deansgate, baffling the Saturday shoppers and amusing the young at heart. The ride concluded at the world famous Trafford Centre shopping mall, where kids toys and cash donations were gratefully received by a lovely selection of Sally Army volunteers. Free coffee was distributed to the riders. Some of the regular Saturday shoppers looked overwhelmed by the number of bikers - the Trafford Centre not being well known as a popular biker meeting place. Had the weather been a little better, perhaps more riders would of carried on to Rivington Barn. In true November fashion though, the sun failed to shine. At Rivington a determined section of the riders gathered around the lower cafe. All in all, the event was very worthwhile. I thouroughly enjoyed the ride. I met some wonderful new friends and only wish that I'd taken part in the Toy run before. If you didn't take part this year, do yourself a big favour - next year join us. It's a real buzz. The centre is at 1 Wilmott Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock M15 6BD Phone number for the office: (0161) 236 7537