Father Colin Johnson rides his motorcycle down the aisle

by Graham Tutthill

It's not often you see dozens of leather-clad bikers making up a church congregation - but that's exactly what happened at Charlton Church in Dover on Saturday.

The service was one of thanksgiving for the life and ministry of Father Bill Shergold, the founder of the 69 Motorcycle Club, who died last month at the age of 89.

It was originally organised to mark the 40th anniversary of the club, but members decided to turn it into one of thanksgiving on news of Father Bill's death.

Among those attending was was Dover Mayor Cllr Sue Jones wearing her chain of office over the leather jacket she used to wear as a member of the club.

The current parish Priest, Father Colin Johnson, who is also a keen motorcyclist, rode his bike down the central aisle of the church at the start of the service.

Father Bill was said to have been a quiet and unassuming man, with a special gift for reaching out to young people.

When he was told the anniversary service was being planned, he told the organisers to get as many bikes into the church as possible. Looks like he got his wish!