A GROUP of motorcyclists are on the last lap as they promote their trip to the Menin Gate to lay a wreath to mark the outbreak of the First World War.

Up to 50 riders from the Boundary 500 Motorcycle Group are setting off from Sedgefield on Saturday morning before arriving at Ypres in Belgium in time for the ceremony to mark the centenary of the start of the war.

Group founder Brian Laverick said they will be taking wreaths from both Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, Redcar British Legion Association and Sedgefield Veterans Association.

He said: "In addition to the wreaths we will also be taking 300 wooden crosses to place at various First World War sites in France and Belgium.

"A large number of the crosses have come from schools around the area and later they will be supplied with a record and photograph of where the crosses were placed."

The Group will also be taken with them a signed football, to place at the scene of the football match that took place at Christmas in 1914.

Sedgefield Veterans Association have also arranged a Church Service that will take place at 9.15am on Saturday (July 26) on the Green at Sedgefield to bless the wreathes and crosses and to wish all those going to the Menin Gate a safe journey.