HUNDREDS OF vintage motorcycles arrived in Strathearn yesterday for the bike rally this weekend.

Classic bikes—including great British marques such as Norton, Sunbeam, Royal Enfield, BSA, Matchless and Triumph—will fire nostalgic memories for those who attend the event at Crieff.

This is the 27th annual bike rally and the seventh to be run in Crieff.

The rally takes the bikes on a 100-mile circuit across Perthshire.

In addition to the classic British bikes there will also be some elderly continental motorcycles from Italy and eastern Europe.

Those taking part are gathering at the rugby and cricket grounds in Crieff at 9am today and Elizabeth Smith MSP will be officially starting the proceedings at 10am.

“On view will be a real reflection of the industrial heritage of the country,” she said yesterday.

“The standard of restoration by the owners is amazing and it is great to see these bikes being used rather than appearing continually as static museum exhibits.

“I’m delighted that the organisers have built such a sound history for such a prestigious event in the heart of Perthshire.

“The facilities offered locally, together with the ease of access to a good network of suitable roads, makes Crieff an ideal location, and I am sure that will be appreciated by all of those taking part.”

Peter Oram, who leads the organising group this year, said, “Since moving to Crieff the popularity has increased tremendously.

This is partly due to the fantastic scenery and really challenging roads that entrants can experience in Perthshire. Our target capacity of 100 machines is now easily achieved.”