Award presented at the eighth annual Motorcyle Ride Out.

A Honiton man won first place in the Best Classic Bike category at a popular motorcycle event held in Devon.

Gerald Merchant, a regular rider, attended the eighth annual Motorcycle Ride Out in aid of Devon Air Ambulance Trust (DAAT).

His black Velocette, a beloved 500cc Norton which he has owned for 41 years, stole the limelight and clinched first place.

Gerald, who also volunteers in DAAT’s Honiton shop, said: “I’ve been all over Europe on my bike and I do all my own maintenance, meaning my bike is as good now as it’s always been.

“I’ve had a really great day – I wasn’t expecting to win anything, so this is brilliant!”

The event, which was held on Sunday, July 14, also saw bikers from all over the country meet and ride an 84-mile route through the Devon countryside.

The route started at Knowstone, South Molton, and ended at The Den in Teignmouth.

“It’s been brilliant, said Andy Payne, DAAT supporter and one of the judges of the bikes.

“We’ve had a fantastic day from start to finish. The route was great and the whole organisation has been second to none – we’ve been really impressed.”