DORSET's renowned bike nights have returned after being saved by businesses.

Crowds of motorbike enthusiasts and spectators returned to Poole Quay to witness the event, funded by several Poole-based companies.

Dream Machine Bike Nights hosted its first event of the season on April 16, despite concerns the popular event would be cancelled due to council budget cuts.

Poole Quay was flooded with hundreds of vintage and classic motorbikes. Spectators enjoyed live music and a selection of waterside cafés, pubs, and restaurants.

Landladies Anna Doyle, 54, of Lord Nelson and Michelle Smith, 44, of Poole Arms, stepped in to ensure the night would be a success, securing funding from several sources including owner of their pubs, Hall and Woodhouse and Stonegate, along with Poole BID.

Michelle said: "I am really pleased we were able to work as a community to keep the events calendar alive.

"The bike nights have been on for as long as I can remember, and it would be such a shame to lose such a tradition.

"The response tonight has been amazing; everyone is really grateful to be here."

Chris Hobson of the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride judged the first bike of the night with a prize donated by Muc-off.

Chris said: "It means everything to the biker community that the event is back on.

"The Bike Night has been running for over 20 years; it is a place where like-minded people can get together and enjoy the site and sound of bikes.

"I want to say a huge thank you to Michelle and Anna and the businesses that made it happen."

Chris said he judged the 'bike of the night' based on where it was clean and unusual, and the rider took time and trouble into customising the bike.

With this in mind, Wes Knight was awarded winner accompanied by his 70s style customised Harley Davidson.

Wes said: "I am really pleased to have won. This was my first time here, so I really wasn't expecting anything."

The Bike Nights will be held at Poole Quay every Tuesday from 5.30pm to 10pm from April till October.