Motorbike event attended by 20,000 riders

An estimated 20,000 motorbikes took part in an annual seaside rally, according to the local council.

The Southend Shakedown took place on Easter Monday, with thousands of bikers riding from London and elsewhere to the Essex seaside resort.

Three people were arrested and a number of bikes were seized, according to Essex Police.

"We are aware of the incident and understand that it is part of an active police investigation," a Southend-on-Sea City Council spokesperson said.

"The event itself took place smoothly and successfully, and we continue to work closely with partners to ensure events are delivered safely."

It could have been one of the largest Shakedowns in recent years, but the council said it had not confirmed numbers yet.

Bikers came from across the country to the event, which was heralded by one rider as marking "the start of the bike season".

The Shakedown has run since the late 1990s - apart from a three-year period - resuming again in 2025.

Riders meet at famous Ace Cafe on the North Circular road in London - which organises the event alongside Southend-on-Sea City Council - before heading to the coast in convoy.

Essex Police said the event was "a real spectacle" and the force was "really grateful to the vast majority of attendees for their responsible behaviour".

The force said three people were arrested for offences including drink-driving, driving while disqualified, driving with no insurance, failing to stop for police and a public order offence.

It added that 48 Traffic Offence Reports (TORS) were issued, with a number of bikes being seized for incidents including a wheelie and a burnout.

"We're determined to do all we can to stop lives being lost on our roads. Responsible driving means safe roads," said Ch Supt Chris Bradford.

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