Classic motorbikes are set to join a charity car run and show in Great Yarmouth for the first time.

The car run and show event, organised by Centre 81, is an important fundraiser for the skills and activities centre for adults with physical, sensory and other disabilities.

It has generated £9,250 over the past five years for the charity.

Entry is free to take part but donations are requested to Centre 81's project appeal, which aims to replace its current range of ageing second hand buildings on Tar Works Road with a new purpose-built complex.

The event on Sunday, July 9 is being held in conjunction with the Great Yarmouth Wheels Festival, which draws thousands of car fans to the resort.

The run, which normally attracts about 50 cars, will start from Cromer's Runton Road car park and head off on a 60-mile scenic run through Norfolk countryside to Great Yarmouth seafront.

Centre 81 chief executive Diana Staines said: 'We hope linking up with the Wheels weekend - and adding classic bikes for the first time - will help bring us more entries, visitors and raise more money for our centre funds.'

The event has a bigger display area on the Golden Mile this year following the demolition of the former Amazonia reptile zoo.

Classic cars and bikes in the event are more than 25 years old, but they can also include unusual models.

Trophies and prizes are awarded at the end of the run.

They include: best in show; oldies but goodies (pre 1959); swinging sixties (1960-69); future classics (1970 onwards).

There are also fun trophies including the Drippiest Award (vehicle leaking the most oil) and the I'm Exhausted Award (vehicle travelling furthest to get to the start).

The Wheels Festival runs Saturday, July 8 and Sunday, July 9 from 10am to 5pm at a series of locations along the seafront.

There will be a mix of classic cars, American Hot Rods, F1 simulator, stands and town tours on a 1950s bus.

For more information on the vehicle run call Jackie James on 01493 852573, email jackie.james@centre81.co.uk or visit www.centre81.co.uk

The wheels festival is organised by Greater Yarmouth Tourism and Business Improvement Area with support from Joyland and Great Yarmouth Borough Council.