Next month those with some of the classic bikes still on the road in Bermuda will be touring from the West End to the East End showing off their `blades' -- and all for a good cause.

Heidi DeSilva, who owns a beautifully restored 150 cc Triumph motorcycle, is organising the `Vintage Cycle Poker Run' for those who have bikes over 25-years-old.

Mrs. DeSilva said: "Bermuda has some really old bikes which have been kept up in top shape and I thought this could be a fun day out for the owners and also it will help those in need.'' And since this year has been designated the `Year of the Older Persons', Mrs.

DeSilva will be putting the proceeds of the day's ride into charities which help older people in Bermuda. "I haven't narrowed it down yet, but I am looking at old folks homes,'' said Mrs. DeSilva.

The ride will be held on Sunday, May 16 (rain or shine) and starts at the City Hall parking lot at 10 a.m. and then proceeds to five stops around the Island where each rider will pick up a card. The first stop will be Spanish Point Boat Club and then it is on to Freeport Gardens in Dockyard which is the lunch stop. After Dockyard the riders will travel to Paw Paws on South Shore in Warwick and then it is on to the St. David's Cricket Club and finally they will end the ride at the White Horse Tavern in St. George's.

Now having received all their five cards, it will be the best hand which wins in the poker game. First prize is $100, second is $75 and third is $50.

The entry fee for the riders is $60, and that includes dinner at White Horse Tavern, T-shirts, and there will also be a live bank, Last Rights, for entertainment.

Mrs. DeSilva said: "I have already received the help of the Triumph Club which is a great start. But we also want anyone with a bike over 25-years-old to come out -- I know there are quite of few of them in Bermuda. You have Lambrettas, Vespas, Mobylettes, Cyruses, Zundaps -- maybe some still have a Velosolex running! There will also be an award for Best Bike In Show.'' The group should arrive at the White Horse at around 5.30 p.m. and Mrs.

DeSilva also wants the rest of the public to come and have something to eat and listen to the band. She is also looking for companies to sponsor the ride.

"The money will be going to a good cause,'' she added.

Pre-registration for the ride will be held at Great Things from May 3-8 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Are You Ready for the Vintage Cycle Poker Run?: Well, organiser Heidi DeSilva is, as she shines up her beautiful Triumph motorcycle for the ride which will be held on Sunday, May 16.