BIKERS rode up to a Worcester hostel flashing their headlights, beeping their horns – and carrying gifts of snug fur-lined sleeping bags and warm socks.

The group of about 70 motorcylists had ridden from a cafe in Bridgenorth to St Paul’s Hostel in Tallow Hill as part of the fund-raiser called Frozen Toes – the return.

Donna King, director of services for St Paul’s, said: “I had an appeal out last year for socks and they organised a bike ride to deliver them earlier this year.

“They have done it again now to coincide with the opening of our Night Assessment Centre.

“They brought sleeping bags, blank Christmas cards with stamps, lots of sleeping bags and blankets and £125 as well. It was a really great day. They came down Newtown Road and they all blew their horns and flashed their lights.”

She added: “We have just been overwhelmed with donations and volunteers this year. It’s been amazing.”

The night assessment centre opened on November 25 and will run for 16 weeks with up to 24 rough sleepers able to bed down on the floor of a room in Worcester YMCA.

Mrs King said there were 15 people already accessing the centre. Anyone interested in using the centre, or who knows anyone they think would benefit, should contact St Paul’s hostel.

The bike ride took place on Sunday, December 1.