Bikers show support at closed pub

Ms Goodson said she had made the pub car park safe

Hundreds of bikers have gathered at a Shropshire pub the police closed during an unofficial motorcycle rally because of safety concerns.

The Wheel at Worfield, near Bridgnorth, Shropshire, was banned from trading on 22 June. Magistrates have ruled it must remain shut until a hearing on 4 July.

The bikers met on Wednesday evening to show their support for the pub's landlady Gloria Goodson.

She rejected the claim that the pub is not a suitable location for the rally.

A large number of bikers often gather at the pub on Wednesdays during the summer months.

'Address situation'

Insp Andy Thomas, from West Mercia Police, has described the scale of the event as inappropriate for the area and said it was "an accident waiting to happen".

In a statement West Mercia Police said it has asked Ms Goodson to improve the car park layout, the signage, the number of stewards and also provide first aid.

But Ms Goodson said: "We have a wonderful car park and signs, as well as cones.

"I have done everything I can to make it (the car park) safe."

Ian Jones, one of the biker's who has been coming to the pub for nine years, added: "I think the decision the police have taken is really harsh.

"All sides need to get together to address the situation."