A GROUP of kind-hearted motorcyclists have pulled together and raised more than £600 for a specialist autism school in Widnes.

The Freedom Riders, based in Runcorn, is a group of nine people who have a shared of love of both motorcycles and helping the community.

They have recently presented a cheque for £650 to Ashley High School which provides specialist knowledge of autism, Aspergers syndrome and social communication difficulties.

Steve Dickson, a member of the club, said: "We're just a group of friends who like to get out and have a ride around.

"We were looking for a charity to support and someone mentioned the school so we decided to support them."

The club hosted a number of rock nights by getting bands to play for free and organised raffles in the community.

Within just a few weeks, they had raised hundreds of pounds to help Ashley High School purchase new sensory equipment.

Steve added: "We are going to continue to support the school this year.

"It was fantastic when we went over there to present them with the cheque- it pulled on your heartstrings!"