Thousands of spectators enjoy Baildon Harley-Davidson rally

The annual Shipley Harley Rally is back in Baildon this Bank Holiday Weekend for the 45th time.

The event, believed to be the largest of its kind in the UK, is organised voluntarily by The Wrecking Crew.

Over 300 bikers gathered on Northgate for the sensational rideout at around 1pm this lunchtime.

One of those was Lyndon Fieldhouse who said: "It is a really good atmosphere.

"We have been coming for the last five years. It brings everybody together.

"We go all over Europe; Belgium, France and Ireland for the meetings."

Lyndon Fieldhouse (left) was a rider in the rally (Image: Newsquest) John Barrams, of Apperley Bridge, added: "I have been coming here for the last 25 years.

"I usually ride solo but it is always nice to see so many bikes in one place."

Bikers have been camping out at Baildon Rugby Club since Thursday night.

One rider had to be pushed along due to a false start (Image: Newsquest) However, like Leeds Festival, Storm Lilian affected many an experience over the weekend.

One biker told the Telegraph & Argus he had attended the event from Germany only for his tent to break on night one.

Nevertheless the weather did not dampen every spirit.

Mark and Katie Davis were back at the rally once again (Image: Newsquest) "It is absolutely fantastic," said Mark and Katie Davis, who have been attending the rally for the last 14 years.

"It is definitely the place to be on August Bank Holiday. It is such a buzz out there.

"Bikers get a bad name but they are honestly the best people you can meet."

The bikes got off their marks just before 1pm (Image: Newsquest) Nene Christmon had travelled up from Northamptonshire with her partner.

She said: "This is our sixth year. We love the village and the people here.

"There are a few less bikes this year but that might be down to the weather."

Dianne Jackson, of Wrose, said: "I have been going for the past 20 years. You make some great friends.

Dianne Jackson enjoys meeting up with friends of old and new at the event each year (Image: Newsquest) "There is that community spirit and everyone is there for a good laugh.

"We come back every year, no matter what the weather is like."

One of the more unique bikes on show (Image: Newsquest) Angela Burton visited the festival for the first time with her family.

She said: "I like bikes. I was visiting my daughter so it was nice and convenient.

"It is a nice family day out. I'm sure it will be very noisy soon."

Sandra and David Long come down to watch the rally every year (Image: Newsquest) Sandra and David Long said: "We come here year after year.

"It is nice to catch up with old friends.

"It is always noisy and sometimes quite emotional when the riders do set off."