A Spitfire flypast at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire will be held as part of a charity motorcycle ride.

The Ride to the Wall on October 10 is expected to raise more than £10,000 to help maintain the arboretum at Alrewas.

The motorcycle event, held annually in memory of troops killed in conflicts since the Second World War, starts this year from Drayton Manor – about 15 miles from the arboretum. The service will be led by TV and radio celebrity, chat show host and keen biker, the Rev Lionel Fanthorpe.

Last year more than 2,500 motorcyclists took part and organisers expect at least twice as many this year.

“The interest and online registrations for this year’s event has already been unbelievable so we are hoping for an enormous turnout on the day,” said founder and RTTW chairman Martin Dickinson.

“Because of the increased numbers anticipated this year, a new assembly point has been chosen – Drayton Manor – which has improved parking space and facilities and overnight camping is also available.

“After many months of discussions, we are pleased to announce that the RAF has accepted our application and will provide a Spitfire flypast which will bring the short memorial service given by Lionel Fanthorpe to a fitting finale,” he added.

RTTW gives motorcyclists the chance to show respect and raise money for upkeep of the national memorial.

The stone monument features the names of more than 16,000 service men and women killed on duty or by terrorist action since the end of the Second World War engraved around its walls.

Details of the RTTW and online registration can be obtained on the RTTW website – www.rttw.org