Newtownabbey: Silent Rascals bring Christmas cheer to NI Children’s Hospice with festive Santa Run
The sound of roaring engines mixed with festive cheer as the Silent Rascals Motorcycle Club held their annual Santa Run in support of Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.
More than 40 bikers took part in the charity run by the Doagh-based club, turning heads as they arrived dressed in seasonal attire and carrying a very special cargo, gifts for children and families supported by the hospice.
Alongside the presents, the club proudly presented a cash donation of just over £3,000 - a significant contribution raised through the hard work and generosity of club members and supporters.
The majority of the presents were gathered through donations from within the Silent Rascals MC and their wider supporter network, highlighting the strong community spirit that surrounds the club.
Additional support came from Eurospar stores in Larne, Doagh, Templepatrick and Mallusk, whose contributions helped make the day an even greater success.
A spokesperson for the club said the run was about more than just motorcycles: “Christmas can be an incredibly difficult time for families facing serious illness. If we can bring a bit of joy, a few smiles and some much-needed support, then every mile we ride is worth it.”
The Silent Rascals Motorcycle Club has a long-standing reputation for combining a passion for biking with a commitment to giving back.
Founded on "principles of brotherhood, respect and community”, the club has spent years supporting charities, fundraisers and community initiatives across the province. The annual Santa Run has become a much-anticipated event, growing year on year in both size and impact.
NI Children’s Hospice expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone involved, noting that both the financial donation and the thoughtful gifts will make a real difference to children and families during the festive period.
The charity’s services include specialist nursing care at home, supported breaks at its In-Patient Unit, end-of-life care and family and bereavement support. NI Children’s Hospice also work in partnership with the NHS to support parents with its antenatal care service, Tiny Horizons.
As Christmas approaches, the Silent Rascals’ efforts stand as a reminder of what can be achieved when community spirit, generosity and goodwill come together.