Glasgow Children's Hospital Easter Egg run takes over Glasgow

A troupe of costumed characters took off from the Merchant City in a convoy of motorbikes, scooters and trikes.

From there they headed past the Broomielaw and Squinty Bridge before arriving at the Royal Hospital for Children to greet the patients. 

Characters included Captain America, Sesame Street's Big Bird and Elmo and of course the Easter Bunny. 

This race raises money for the Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity and was met with a welcome return after three years without it.

Kirsten Watson, Chief Executive at Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “The Easter Egg Run is surely one of the city’s most-loved Easter events. After a three-year absence, we’re thrilled to welcome back our friends from the biker community.

“The return of the event this year is all the more poignant, as we are celebrating the charity’s 20th anniversary."

The race is popular in Glasgow not only for the fun factor but the incredible amount of money raised. 

Kirsten added: "The bikers have contributed so much through the years, which have seen Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity commit more than £41million towards life-changing projects and support services for children in hospital.

“There is no sight quite like hundreds of bikers in fancy dress riding through the city, and seeing the smiles on the faces of our young patients as the parade passes through the hospital.”

The parade continued on to Braehead Shopping Centre where a family fun day was held for supporters. 

Braehead’s Centre Director, Peter Beagley, said: “The mile-long convoy of motorbikes and their riders in fancy dress has certainly been something special to see.

“But there’s a serious side to the carnival atmosphere created by Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity’s Easter Egg Run and that’s being able to raise as much money as possible for a very worthy cause.”

Jamie Redfern, Director of Women and Children’s Services at NHSGGC added: “There has been so much excitement for Easter Sunday. COVID restrictions meant that the parade has not been able to take place for some time, so this year has been extra special for the children, their families and the staff.

"It’s a highlight of the year here and we’re so grateful to the charity and the bikers for this great event.

“This has been a great week, in the run-up to Easter, with lots going on the keep the children entertained, thanks to funding from Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.

"Our fabulous Play Assistants do lots of crafts and Easter activities with the children.”