RIDERS will be getting on their motorbikes in memory of loved ones for the third year running.

The 71 Motorcycle Club will be setting out from Dorchester on a 200-mile ride in memory of members Paul Riley, Graham Makepeace and Peter Balistrari – three friends who died within a few months of each other.

Mr Riley died of cancer in July 2008, Mr Makepeace lost his battle with cancer in the October and Mr Balistrari died while riding his motorbike on the A35 near Bloxworth in January 2009.

The three men were all members of The 71 Motorcycle Club which was formed in Dorchester in 1971.

Mr Riley’s daughters, 27-year-old Crystal, 27, and Emma, 31, wanted to do something to remember the three men by, including their father, and it was decided that a commemorative ride should take place.

The first ride in 2009, which raised £750 for the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust, proved such a success that the organisers – including Mr Riley’s widow Dorothy – decided to make the ride an annual event.

Last year also proved successful with £570 being raised for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

This year’s ride on Saturday will see the bikers head up to Trago Mills in Devon for lunch before riding back to Broadmayne, where a host of live bands and entertainment has been lined up at the Black Dog pub.

There will also be a BBQ and a raffle to help raise funds for this year’s chosen charity, Help for Heroes.

Mrs Riley, 54, from Stratton, said: “All three of them would have been over the moon to know people were riding in their memory and doing so for a good cause. It’s a lovely way to remember three very special men.

“If you’re a rider then come and join is, and if you’re not just come down to the after party.

“Every single penny raised will go to Help for Heroes – the bands are donating their time for free and the pub doesn’t charge us.

“It’s for a good cause and the more people that come, the better.”

John Read, events co-ordinator The 71 Motorclub Club, said: “It’s the third time we’ve done this and it’s a great way to pay tribute – not only to Paul, Graham and Peter – but to all those former members who are no longer with us.”

Call John on 01305 261659 or email john-read@tiscali.co.uk for more information.