THOUSANDS of bikers are in the Midlands to enjoy the 25th anniversary Bulldog Bash.

The organiser, John ‘Bilbo’ Britt, hailed the return of “low-key policing” to the event, being held at the Shakespeare County Raceway, near Stratford-upon-Avon.

It previously attracted controversy when Hells Angel Gerry Tobin was murdered after the 2007 Bash.

And bikers clashed at Birmingham Airport the following year.

Mr Britt said he was encouraged by the number of riders waiting to enter the venue on Thursday.

“I am happy to see the reduction in police activity for the 25th anniversary,” he said.

“I have never seen so many bikes queuing at the main gate. We are pleased so many have chosen to support us in celebrating the 25th year of the Bulldog.”

Opening the event, Stratford District Council chairman Coun Eric Payne said: “I thank the organisers for their support of a number of worthy charities.”