The Southend Shakedown is Back for 2025
The popular motorcycle event hasn’t been officially held since 2022, but a boost to council funding has meant it will return in 2025
A popular motorcycle event that pulls bikers from across the country is to take place once again in 2025, as the Southend Shakedown is confirmed with an expected April date.
The Shakedown hasn’t officially taken place since 2022, with funding cuts partially blamed for its cancellation in recent years. There was an unofficial ride-out event held in Southend-on-Sea in 2024, although without the backing of the council, only an estimated 2,000 people took part. Another apparent reason for the cancellation of the event was abuse being aimed at volunteer marshalls and staff, who were seemingly berated for carrying out their roles.
This year's event could be one of the biggest yet, and it is something that local businesses and retailers are more than happy about. The BBC reports that Seafront Traders' Association member, Joan Tiney, said it was "smashing" news for coastal businesses.
The 2025 running of the event has been given a provisional date of April 21, when bikers will be descending on the seaside town, before taking part in rides up and down the Western Esplanade in front of the amassed crowds.
The BBC also reports that Matt Dent, councillor for culture, tourism and business, said he was "proud" of finding the money to make the event happen once again. "We should be holding a range of exciting events, drawing visitors to make the most of seafronts and parks and all the hidden gems," he said. It also reports that classic car events would be welcomed back to the seafront, as well as news that £185,000 has been found to celebrate Southend-on-Sea’s city status anniversary.
Picture credit: Southend Shakedown Resurrection
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Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
