Firm to lay on new motorbike show

The new motorcycle show is planned from August 23 to 25

A new motorbike show is being planned in Powys after Wales' biggest was cancelled last month amid fears of violence between rival biker gangs.

The annual Welsh National Motorcycle Show run by WMS Ltd was to have taken place at the Royal Welsh showground in Llanelwedd.

But Dyfed-Powys Police said there would be a "significant risk of violence" if it went ahead as planned.

Another firm, Penmaenau Events, is planning a smaller show in August.

Dyfed-Powys Police, who were influential in the cancellation of last month's show, are aware of the event, which they said had been planned for some time.

Penmaenau Events said its event from the 23 - 25 August, would be smaller, attracting about 5,000 people instead of the 15,000 who normally attend the Welsh motorcycle show.

'Huge impact'

There will also be trade stands and competitions.

Ann Morgan, who runs the business with her family, hires out land for events and provides lavatories and showers for guests.

She said last month's cancellation had had a huge effect on the local economy.

"People in this area rely on the motorcycle show and its cancellation had a huge impact on local pubs, cafes and other businesses," she said

"We thought it would be a good idea to lay on our own event, although it will be a lot smaller."

She added: "In the past motorcyclists have camped with us during the annual show so we have a few contacts with motorcycle clubs.

"The motorcyclists come with their families and they never cause any problems and they have a great attitude."

Steve Bennett, the organiser of the Welsh National Motorcycle Show, threatened to take legal action after his event was cancelled in May.