RACING legend and former World Superbike champion Carl Fogarty is returning to lead Lye’s Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s much-anticipated Bike4Life Ride Out and Festival 2017.

Taking place on Sunday, April 30, Bike4Life – now in its seventh year – has grown to become one of the country’s most popular biker events.

More than 6,000 bikers regularly take part in the ride out which runs 23 miles from Shrewsbury to RAF Cosford, home to the Bike4Life Festival, which attracts a further 6,000 people.

Carl Fogarty was the star of Bike4Life in 2015, and is returning next year as part of his continued commitment to the Dudley Road-based charity, which airlifts motorcyclists to hospital on a regular basis.

The four-time World Superbike champion said: “Bike4Life is one of the best biker events in the calendar, and it’s all in aid of a very important cause.

“When I took part previously the atmosphere on the day was fantastic and it was great to see so many bikers, fans and Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s own supporters.

“I’m really looking forward to once again leading the ride out, and as registration is now open, I’d urge people to sign up.”

To follow Carl’s lead and take part in the ride out, which costs £10 per motorbike (pillions ride for free), visit www.bike4lifefest.com.

Jason Levy from Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, and chair of the Bike4Life organising committee, said: “We are honoured Carl is returning to the Bike4Life Ride Out and Festival.

“His career achievements are legendary, and we know he will really help make Bike4Life 2017 be a great success.”