Bikers pay their respects to Shoreham air crash victims

HUNDREDS of bikers paid their respects to victims of the Shoreham Air crash in a ‘Ride of Respect’ last night.
Giovanna Chirico lays a wreath in memory of her fiancée Mark Trussler, who died in the Shoreham air crash  Pictures: Eddie MitchellGiovanna Chirico lays a wreath in memory of her fiancée Mark Trussler, who died in the Shoreham air crash  Pictures: Eddie Mitchell
Giovanna Chirico lays a wreath in memory of her fiancée Mark Trussler, who died in the Shoreham air crash Pictures: Eddie Mitchell

Organised by West Sussex Bikers, around 250 leather-clad men and women travelled the short distance from the Halfords, in Downlands Business Park, Upper Brighton Road, Worthing, to Shoreham’s Old Tollbridge via the A27 at 7.30pm.

Among the riders was Mark Trussler’s fiancée Giovanna Chirico. Father-of-six Mark, 54, was one of two bikers killed in the devastating air crash.

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Her friend, Dan Horn, 34, from Worthing, said: “It was a really good respectful ride. It was a massive emotional rollercoaster for Giovanna. She was pretty gobsmacked at the turn out. She was expecting a few bikes, but there were hundreds of them.”

West Sussex Bikers gather at Halfords in Upper Brighton RoadWest Sussex Bikers gather at Halfords in Upper Brighton Road
West Sussex Bikers gather at Halfords in Upper Brighton Road

When they arrived at the bridge Giovanna laid a special wreath beside flowers left by herself and Mark’s children.

Writing on West Sussex Bikers’ Facebook page, organiser Andy Parmenter, also known as Hobbit, said: “On behalf of all at West Sussex Bikers, thank you to everyone that showed for the Ride of Respect for those that lost their lives and those affected by the Shoreham Airshow tragedy. All our thoughts are with them. Also thanks to the Vikings MC Sussex for their attendance and for marshalling.

“During the evening we were still being given donations to put towards the Shoreham Crash Fund, we will post a total amount once we have a figure.

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“Once again thanks to everyone, all the riders and all the Sussex clubs that came to show their respects.”

Bikers arrive at the Old Tollbridge, ShorehamBikers arrive at the Old Tollbridge, Shoreham
Bikers arrive at the Old Tollbridge, Shoreham

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