THERE was some festive magic in Worcester this weekend as a host of motorbike Santas visited ill children.

Around 50 bikers dressed as Father Christmas rode to the Acorns Hospice in Bath Road to offer presidents and seasonal cheer.

The bikers originally met and set off from Tewkesbury before heading up to Worcester.

Before riding round the corner to the hospice, they met in the car park at the nearby Harvester.

Mel Hall, area fundraiser for Acorns, said: "Christmas is such a special time at Acorns.

"We’re very lucky to have so many amazing supporters in the community who help make every moment magical for the children and families we care for at this time of year and all round and Santas on a bike are no exception.

"There has been such a buzz about today, it’s been wonderful.

"We’re so grateful to Santas on a bike, today will be one to remember.”

Once the riders arrived, they delivered gifts to some of the children cared for at the hospice, with hot drinks and mince pies offered to the riders who took part.

The ride began in 2004 with just 12 participants but now there are four events taking place across the country with hundreds of people expected to take part.

Jenni Long, one of the organisers, said it was "wonderful" to see so many riders taking part.

She said: "Santas on a Bike choose to support children’s hospices at this time of year in the hope of raising a smile to children and families at what may be difficult times, especially brought to light around the festive period.

"The children at Acorns Hospice are there either for short break stays or at the end of their lives.

"They have a range of complex medical conditions and many of them live with severe disability, it costs almost £10million to run the services."