HUNDREDS of motorcycle enthusiasts and two-wheel afficionados gathered for the annual vintage bike rally at the weekend ­— with several distinctive bikes on display at St Thomas' Square.

Organised by the IW Vintage Motor Cycle Club, the event raised more than £200 for the Wessex Cancer Trust, with a number of representatives ­— including giant furry mascot Wolly ­— greeting visitors as they perused the vintage steel.

More than 50 bikes from all manner of origins rolled up to the square to be judged and examined, with the owner of the most desirable machine ­being presented with the County Press Trophy.

Judges considered the age of the machine, how close it was to the original, and signs of regular use ­— representing the ideals of the vintage and classic movement.

Bill Phelps and his 1936 Nimbus motorcycle of Danish origin ­— a frontrunner for its time, and one of the rarest on show ­— took home the coveted trophy.

Among the makes on display were Ducati, Royal Enfield, Brough Superior, Alldays and Onions, Triumph, Honda, Norton, Hollis, Ariel, Moto Guzzi, Nimbus and Velocotte.

Models that particularly caught the eye were a 1927 Ariel Model C Sports with its hand change gear ­— a highly respected and lively machine ­— and a 1972 former Italian army Moto Guzzi Nuovo Falcone, outfitted with ammunition boxes on its rear ­— a robust and intimidating hulk of pristine metal.

Following the judging, the weather put an end to a planned 2pm ride-out, but it took place on Sunday.

More than 30 old machines rode around the Island, starting from Newbridge, through Niton, Ventnor and Sandown, and stopping for a coffee break at The Propeller Inn, Bembridge.

Riders then continued on through St Helens, Ashey, Arreton Down, and Gurnard, before enjoying a welcome lunch at Ningwood's Horse and Groom.

A circuit of the West Wight finished the day off.

The owner of any machine 25 years or older is eligible to join the club, and can do so at www.vmcc.net

Don't forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.