A popular annual Santa ride event is facing uncertainty after reports that Cleveland Police had “withdrawn support.”

The Boundary 500 Motorcycle Santa Ride, which has taken place since 2006, sees Teessiders line the streets every year for the festive event. 

The Santa Ride sees hundreds of bikers - dressed as Father Christmas - spread festive cheer across the region while raising money for several charities, including Zoe's Place Baby Hospice in Middlesbrough.

However, this week, organiser Brian Laverick announced on Facebook that the event, which was due to take place this year on November 30, had been cancelled.

The Boundary 500 Santa RunThe Boundary 500 Santa Run (Image: TOM BANKS)

He said he had been informed by the force that it was “unable to assist with a motorcycle escort for the Santa Ride this year and going forward.” 

A Cleveland Police spokesperson said it did not cancel the event and a meeting has been arranged to discuss its requirements. 

Mr Laverick said the police involvement since the event’s inception had “been a major factor in making the event so successful.”

He added that, without police attendance, controlling a variety of areas the procession “would become very fragmented” as the police ensure it can move in one block.

Organisers therefore decided it could “no longer take place in its present format” on safety grounds. 

This prompted an outpouring of anger online, branding the news as “appalling.” One person said: “Very sad news, as others have said hopefully some alternative way is possible.” 

 

Force has not cancelled event - Cleveland Police

Mr Laverick said the event had “always had the support of the Police and Crime Commissioner” and that he was “very disappointed in the police approach.”

Labour’s Matt Storey, the new Police and Crime Commissioner, said he was not involved in any further decision-making and has requested an update from senior leaders on Monday. 

He said: “The Boundary 500 Santa Run is a fantastic community event, which has brought delight to families across the Teesside area for many years.

“As Police and Crime Commissioner, by law I cannot ask the force to deploy officers to specific events. When contacted by event organisers, my office informed them it would be best to direct their query to Cleveland Police.

“I was not involved in any further decision-making regarding the event. This morning I requested an update from the force’s senior leaders, following the announcement from organisers that the event had been cancelled.

“I understand police will be meeting with event organisers to discuss the matter further.”

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A force spokesperson said: “Cleveland Police has been in contact with the Santa Ride event organiser and a meeting has been arranged to discuss the requirements of the event and to remind the organiser of their obligations.

“Cleveland Police will always ensure that public events are managed in accordance with statutory guidelines and legislation to ensure safety of all those involved.

“The force has not cancelled the event.  Cleveland Police officers advised the event organisers previously that there would need to be a change of format for the 2024 event.”