THOUSANDS of bikers are set to head to Gwent this weekend for the 10th annual, Hoggin’ the Bridge.

Bikers from across the country are expected to cross the Old Severn Bridge on Sunday, before travelling in convoy along a 22-mile route through Magor, Rogiet, Caldicot and finishing in Chepstow.

Last year, more than 3,000 riders took part, including former Newport Gwent Dragons stars Ian Gough and Jason Forster.

Organised by Bridgewater HOG - or Harley Owners Group, the ride kicks off at 11am from junction 1 of the M48 and a range of events will be taking place in Chepstow during the afternoon.

Fundraiser Phil Hayward said: “The response we’ve had is absolutely amazing, considering we are in a recession. We're expected around 5,000 bikers. There’s going to be a couple of bands and other events taking place in the afternoon as well.”

Chepstow Town Council and Chepstow Chamber of Commerce have teamed up with other organisations in the town to hold events in the afternoon.

Jackie Sullivan, from the Chamber of Commerce, said: "We've got the Foster King Band and Eclipse playing in the High Street in the afternoon and all the shops will be open. It should be a good afternoon."

Motorists are being advised to avoid several roads, near Chepstow on the day, including the M48 Old Severn Bridge, the M48 westbound to junction 23A at Magor, the B4245 through Magor to Caldicot, the A48 from Parkwall to Chepstow, Chepstow town centre and the A466 through Chepstow.

The main congestion is expected between 10am and 2pm.