If you’re new to South Rugby News: welcome! Sign up for independent stories and reports about our communities, advert-free and direct to your inbox.

ALL roads lead to Rugby town centre on Sunday with the return of Bikefest.

This hugely popular event was cancelled last year because of the pandemic but is roaring back into action this weekend with the usual irresistible mix of bikes, live music, classic cars, a fair, food and drink - and plenty more for all ages.

The main event runs from 10am-4pm on Sunday, September 26th and it’s a day when you don’t want to be late - the action kicks off with the epic ride-in when motorbike groups make a co-ordinated arrival in the the town centre before parking up to join in the fun.

The live music will take place on two stages - the Mister Robinson’s Barber Stage and the Clock Tower Stage - from 11.30am with some favourite names from the Rugby music scene dotted across both, including The Jellyheads, White Men Can’t Funk, Dead Frequency and Courthouse - and there will be more music in Caldecott Park.

As before there will be various stalls selling refreshments plus other items, while the fair gets the weekend off to a flying start by opening on Saturday - with the Ken Fox Wall of Death adding a new dimension to the proceedings.

Bikefest is organised by Rugby First in conjunction with the borough council and motorcycling groups.

Rugby First’s Ryan Webster said: “At last we have some good news and something we can all look forward to. It has been an extremely challenging 12 months for town centre businesses, not only in Rugby, but across the country. 

“Bikefest attracts around 8,000 visitors to the town centre and businesses, especially those in the hospitality sector, will expect to benefit from a significant uplift in takings.

“A big thank you to the local biking groups that support this event, and I would encourage anyone – bike enthusiast or not to come into the town centre and enjoy a great day out.”

Photo: Dead Frequency at Bikefest 2016 - they will be back this weekend on the Clock Tower Stage