Easy riders perched atop perhaps the most famous motorbikes of them all are descending on York this weekend.

Organisers of the UK Chapter Rally being staged at Knavesmire are expecting more than 1,500 Harley Davidson bikers to roar into town.

Organised by the Aire Valley Chapter, based in Leeds and an official Harley Davidson club, the event should attract riders from all over Europe.

Spokesman Bill Clubb said 1,100 people had already registered to attend the event, with the majority arriving today.

"If the weather is good we expect at least another 600 to turn up over the weekend," said Mr Clubb. As well as the usual trade stands, bands and entertainment, 600 bikers are expected to take part in a ride-out from Knavesmire tomorrow.

They will meet the Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Derek Smallwood, at Clifford's Tower mid-morning to hand over a cheque for one of the Lord Mayor's charities before enjoying a 60-mile ride through the North York Moors. Mr Clubb said the public are welcome to get a closer glimpse of the superbikes at a special 'showcase' on Knavesmire on Sunday.

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