SANTA Claus was out in force at the weekend when more than 200 rode around Teesside - all in the name of charity.

Hundreds of people lined the streets to see the Boundary 500 Club's annual ride, to raise funds for Zoe's Place Baby Hospice, snake its way from Thornaby to Kirkleatham.

The brainchild of founder, Brian Laverick, the event has become a popular curtain raiser for the festive season.

And this year was no exception as hundreds of Santas were joined by other fancy dressed motorcyclists and one or two more sedate forms of transport, including scooters and a converted boat.

Former policeman, Mr Laverick said: "It was a fantastic day and it just seems to grow in popularity every year judging by the number of people who lined the streets to watch it. It would appear that it is becoming a regional event and hopefully we will be able to continue doing it for years to come.

"This year we had the maximum number of riders that we could have and we have to thank Cleveland Police and all of the councils who help to make it such a special event."

Since 2006, Boundary 500 has raised, through various events, more than £500,000 for its two nominated charities - Zoe’s Place and the Great North Air Ambulance.

For further information about the group visit www.boundary500.co.uk or search for them on Facebook.