Phoenix Motorcycle Club visits Rutherford School Christmas Fair on 13th December for their 11th Annual Toy Run supporting students with profound and complex disabilities.
Ruth Jaffe, Event Organiser at Phoenix Motorcycle Training, has supported Rutherford School for over 10 years coordinating the ride and collection for months in advance: “It’s more than just a motorcycle ride – as the only Toy Run they receive each year, we play a vital role in supporting the students, staff, and families of Rutherford School, and giving back to a community that deeply needs our support. The genuine joy and excitement we bring to these young people make a lasting impact, and it has become a cherished tradition for our club.”
Visiting Rutherford School’s Christmas Fair as the last stop on their ride, bikers arrive in style bearing the fruits of their Toy Run, wearing costumes and riding decorated bikes.
From a unicorn to the Grinch, Santa and reindeer, every biker and bike has been adorned with a festive theme in the past. The team of bikers and Unity Support riders come and join the festivities of the fair and make a presentation of the toys, equipment and gifts for the students.
It’s quite the spectacle. Gemma Thomson, Malik class teacher from Rutherford School, agrees: “They are a fantastic sight, turning up in their festive gear! And we really appreciate the support of the Phoenix riders providing much needed equipment and items that our students use for sensory lessons, development, communication, and independence.”
Rutherford is an independent specialist day school catering to students aged 19–25 with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD). The continued support of Phoenix Motorcycle club is especially welcome in a year where the school have been raising funds to complete extensive building works in their Space to Thrive appeal. The building works at the school will create a new hydrotherapy pool, an extra classroom to accommodate more students, and accessible community meeting space. With some of the extra students due to start from January 2026 onwards, it’s a most exciting and opportune time to receive extra equipment from the generosity of the Phoenix riders.
Rutherford School’s Christmas Fair is a hidden gem for finding unique presents. With stalls of beautifully crafted handmade gifts for sale, hot food and a festive sensory experience, it’s an event not to be missed.
You can join festivities and see the Phoenix riders arrive for yourself on 13th December 1-3pm at Rutherford School 1a Melville Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 7HZ.
Anyone with a motorcycle and a valid CBT certificate is welcome to join the ride, please contact Phoenix Motorcycle Training for more details 0330 223 4000.