A MUCH-LOVED motorbike display team received a rousing send-off as they performed their spectacular stunts for the final time.

Members of the Royal Signals team the White Helmets brought the streets of Blandford to a standstill and demonstrated their skills in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

The White Helmets were first formed 90 years ago and the format of displays has remained largely unchanged.

Its 23 members, who ride classic 750cc Triumph Tigers, wear full dress uniform and perform a range of stunts including forming a motorcycle human pyramid, cycling backwards while juggling and bursting through a hoop of fire.

Earlier this year the Ministry of Defence announced that no more bookings will be taken for the team. It is understood they may be replaced with a stunt team.

Thousands of people, including local schoolchildren, lined the streets in the sunshine, cheering and waving flags.

Captain Jon McLelland led the riders into Market Place where they greeted members of the public and mayors from across the county.

There was a performance from The Land Girls before Capt McLelland sought permission from Blandford Mayor Cllr Peter Clark to depart Blandford for the final time.

Team Sergeant Mike Arnold told the Daily Echo: “It was an emotionally-charged day for us. It is our home town - we all live here and a lot of us have families here.

“We were surprised to see so many people there and it is lovely to know that we have such a great level of support in the community.”

Sgt Arnold said the team has performed around 30 displays this season and that many members are sad to see the end of the White Helmets.

“I have been second-in-command for two years and I have a loved every minute of it.”