The Rutherford School Christmas Fair next month is getting all revved up for a very special attraction, with Santas arriving for the festive celebration on motorbikes.
Ho, ho ho!: weighed down with festive presents, Santas will be arriving at the Rutherford School on motorbikes
Phoenix Motorcycle Training is staging its Toy Run in support of the special school on Saturday, December 14. This heartwarming event brings the motorcycle community together for a day of fun, giving and goodwill, and has become a cherished tradition.
This year’s Toy Run marks the 10th time that the motorcycle training school has delivered toys to the young people at Rutherford School, at Melville Avenue in South Croydon.
Phoenix Toy Runs have always supported Rutherford School, the specialist day school catering to students aged 19 to 25 with profound and multiple learning disabilities, or PMLD. As the only Toy Run they receive each year, the Phoenix Toy Run plays a vital role in supporting the students, staff, and families of Rutherford School.
“Our annual Toy Run is more than just a motorcycle ride — it’s about bringing Christmas joy to the students, and giving back to a community that deeply needs our support,” said Ruth Jaffe from Phoenix Motorcycle Training.
Prize rewards: the best-decorated bikes will be in for awards
“The genuine joy and excitement we bring to these young people make a lasting impact, and it’s a highlight of the year for everyone involved.”
The Toy Run is open to all riders regardless of bike size or riding experience – anyone with a motorcycle and a valid compulsory basic training certificate is welcome to join.
“The Toy Run is all about bringing Christmas cheer to the students at Rutherford School as well as the general public on the way, so all riders are encouraged to dress up in festive costumes and decorate their bikes, too.”
Among the prizes to be awarded on the day will be Best Bike, Best Rider and Best Rider and Pillion.
Phoenix Motorcycle Training is the country’s largest motorcycle training provider, offering the guidance of fully accredited instructors across the range of motorcycling experience, from complete beginners to experienced riders.
For the Toy Run on December 14, participating riders and pillions will gather at Phoenix’s Bexley Road Safety Centre (Baugh Road, Footscray, Sidcup, DA14 5ED) at 10.30am before riding in convoy to Croydon. “Along the way, they will spread Christmas cheer with decorated bikes and festive attire.”
At noon, a second meeting point will be at Phoenix Motorcycle Training at Wolsey Junior Academy School, Castle Hill Avenue Entrance, New Addington, CR0 0TF.
Generous crew: the Phoenix Motorcycle group at Rutherford School last Christmas
From here, the convoy will parade around the local area, bringing joy to Christmas shoppers before arriving at Rutherford School at approximately 2pm. The event will conclude with prizes for riders, gift presentations to the students and refreshments before participants ride home.
Riders wishing to take part are asked to bring with them gifts from Rutherford School’s Wish List, or arts and craft supplies, bath towels, warm colourful fleece blankets for wheelchairs, or hat, scarf and glove sets suitable for young people aged between 19 and 25.
Rutherford School, which is run by the Garwood Foundation charity, offers a unique curriculum designed to provide education in an integrated manner incorporating learning, therapy and health needs for its students. “The aim is to provide inclusive education to learners whose very special needs are compounded by a high level of dependency and who require very specialised management for physical disabilities, sensory impairment and complex medical needs.”
“With the generous support of the Unity Support Riders, the 2024 Toy Run is set to be a safe, fun, and unforgettable event, ensuring that the students at Rutherford School receive the holiday joy they deserve,” Jaffe said.
- For more information on how to participate or donate, contact Ruth Jaffe at Phoenix Motorcycle Training at Ruth@phoenixmotorcycletraining.co.uk or call 0779 3470738
- For businesses wishing to make a contribution, there is an opportunity to add your branding to a festive dress worn at the event. Please contact Ruth Jaffe for more information
Read more: Help the Garwood Foundation with its Space To Thrive appeal
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