More than 5,000 registered motorcyclists (total number still to be published), pillions and supporters braved the wind and rain brought by Storm Amy to take part in the 18th annual Ride to the Wall (RTTW) on Saturday, 4th October 2025. The event, held at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, stands as a solemn tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

This year, even extreme weather couldn’t deter the RTTW family, whose purpose remains unwavering: to remember and honour the fallen.
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A Ride with Purpose

Since its inception in 2008 the RTTW has grown into one of the largest motorcycling memorial events in the country. It gives bikers a chance to remember those who can no longer ride by their side, while raising vital funds for the Arboretum – the UK’s year-round centre for remembrance.
Riders travelled from 12 official start points across the UK, arriving in coordinated convoys despite blustery road conditions with housands of other supporters, families and veterans also making their own way (some registering uopn their entrance to the National Memorial Arboretum), all gathering ready to pay their respects.
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Memorial Service & Speeches

The service began with a heartfelt address from the founder, Martin Dickinson MBE, who expressed deep gratitude to the riders and supporters for their unwavering commitment. A reflective tone was set through the haunting sound of Leif Findlay’s bagpipes with beautifully led hymns from vocalists each creating a moment of shared remembrance.
As the ceremony unfolded, the storm clouds began to part with sunlight breaking through -a moment many described as a powerful and symbolic sign from above.
Further speeches followed from Lieutenant General Paul Jaques CB CBE, a senior military representative; Reverend Huw Evans, National Chaplain to the Royal British Legion Riders; Helen Owen, RTTW representative and Gold Star family member; and Philippa Rawlinson, Director of the National Memorial Arboretum , each delivering meaningful and heartfelt tributes to those who gave their lives in service.
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Who the Arboretum Remembers

The National Memorial Arboretum honours:

• Members of the British Armed Forces who died while on duty, due to terrorist acts, or in operational service since 1948 — the start of post-WWII record keeping.
• The names of over 16,000 service personnel are engraved on the Armed Forces Memorial.
• Over 400 memorials across the site also commemorate:
o Emergency services
o Voluntary organisations
o Civilians who died in service
o Animals who served in conflict — including dogs, horses, and messenger pigeons.

It is a space of reflection, unity, and living remembrance.
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Fundraising Milestone: £1.5M+ Raised

Thanks to the dedication of riders, volunteers and supporters over £1.5 million has now been raised by the RTTW to support the work and upkeep of the Arboretum. These funds ensure the site continues to serve as a place of learning, healing and honour.
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Find Out More

• 🌐 RTTW Official Website
• 📘 RTTW Facebook Page: Linked via the homepage or search “OFFICIAL RTTW Ride to the Wall”
• 🌳 National Memorial Arboretum website
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As engines roared through the rain and helmets came off in silence, RTTW 2025 stood as proof that remembrance is not weather-dependent, it’s a bond shared by thousands. A promise that we will always remember them.

Written by MJ

All images authors own