Festive Motorcycle Event Canceled Due to Severe Gale Forecast

An annual festive motorcycle ride, which typically draws hundreds of participants, has been called off because of the severe gales predicted for the upcoming weekend. The Santa’s on a Bike event was scheduled to take place on Saturday morning, aiming to raise funds for Rebecca’s House, the Isle of Man’s children’s hospice. However, organisers stated they made the decision to cancel it “with a heavy heart,” emphasizing that the safety of those planning to participate had to be prioritized. An amber weather warning has been issued for the majority of Saturday, with gusts reaching up to 80mph (129km/h) expected to hit the island as Storm Darragh approaches. The Ronaldsway Met Office reported that severe gales, potentially intensifying to storm force at times, are forecast to affect the island from 03:00 on Saturday and continue for the rest of the day. For 2024, the motorcycle ride was planned to commence on Victoria Street in Douglas, concluding at Rebecca House, located near Noble’s Hospital in Braddan. Last year, the event successfully raised over £86,000 for the charity.