TWO ex-soldiers have invited Colchester’s bikers to join them on a fundraising ride.

Andy McGowan and Pete Laing, both former members of the Royal Military Police, are taking part in a mass ride through Wootton Bassett.

Soldiers killed in Afghanistan are repatriated through the Wiltshire town.

The event, on March 14, is being organised by military charity Afghan Heroes.

Andy, of Havering Close, said: “There are more than 1,500 bikers registered already, which is fantastic.”

He said it was more important “we do our bit” since it was announced last week that Colchester’s paratroopers would return to Afghanistan in October.

Andy, 45, is a member of the Royal British Legion Riders’ Branch and has attended four repatriations in Wootton Bassett.

The ride starts at Leigh Delamere services on the M4 and ends at RAF Lyneham, where proceeds from the £5 entry fee and sponsorship will be handed over.

* For more information and to register, visit www.afghan heroes.org.uk by February 15. To contact Andy, e-mail andrwmag00@aol.com