THREE hundred motorbike enthusiasts from all over Europe and America rode into Crumlin for a charity rally at the weekend - including the fastest blind man on a bike, Billy the Whizz Baxter, pictured.

Members of The Patriots, who are all serving or former servicemen, originally intended to hold the event on the cricket ground at nearby Treowen.

But after some residents objected to Caerphilly council about possible noise, the bikers had to change their plans.

The bike clubs, including those from Gibraltar, the Netherlands, Germany and the United States, still used the cricket ground as a campsite, but local pub The Patriot - previously called the New Inn - allowed the rally to be held there instead.

More than £1,000 pounds was raised for charity - split between Latch, which helps children suffering from leukaemia and cancer, and St Dunstan's, a charity for ex-servicemen and women who have lost their sight.

Billy Baxter, also known as Billy the Whizz, who holds the world land speed record for a blind person, attended to accept the cheque for St Dunstan's.

Entertainments organiser Russ Johnson, of Crown Street, Crumlin, praised local people for their support.

"We didn't have any complaints about noise, everyone was down here with us and joining in," he said.

"It was a really busy night, the pub was packed, inside and outside." Mr Johnson also thanked police and the cricket club for their help and support.