LAKESIDE Riders, Billericay Round Table and the Richlee Motor Company brought holiday cheer to Basildon Hospital with Santa's sleigh, swapping reindeer for something with a bit more horsepower.

It was a case of 'The Harley and the Ivy' as the Harley-Davidson riders from the Lakeside Chapter rode from Pipps Hill to the hospital, to be there for the delivery of bundles of presents for the children's wards and departments.

David Durrant, a member of the Billericay Round Table, said: "It's fantastic to partner with the Lakeside Chapter and Richlee Motor Company for such a special occasion. We've been out and about in Billericay with Santa and the Grinch and thanks to the generosity of local people, we have purchased over 200 gifts from Argosy Toys, who also added to the donation. We're thrilled to support our local hospital."

Clair Grayston, Senior Charity Manager for Mid and South Essex Hospital's Charity, said: "The visit from the Round Table, Richlee and Harley-Davidson riders was one to remember for our staff and patients.

"The gifts made a huge difference to the children spending Christmas here. We're so grateful."