The day before Bermuda celebrated the life of its first national hero, 40 bikers took to the roads to pay tribute to some of the Island's lesser known characters who have passed away.

Organiser James Gilbert — whose uncle Freddie Gilbert was allegedly murdered last month — hopes the unsung heroes ride from Somerset to St. David's can become an annual event each National Hero weekend.

Mr. Gilbert, of Bermuda Longriders Association, says that while his uncle may not have been a legendary trailblazer like Dame Lois Browne-Evans, he will never forget the life skills he picked up from him.

"The ride went well," Mr. Gilbert told The Royal Gazette. "It was for people to commemorate their own heroes.

"In everybody's life, you have certain people you always like to remember, maybe a relative or a close friend — someone who inspired you in some sort of way to push forward.

"My uncle Freddie inspired me in certain ways. He was a very fun-loving, funny guy. I have a lot of traits myself like that.

"If you have someone who has helped you like that, it's good to be able to do something to remember them."

The bodies of Mr. Gilbert and his fellow homeless friend Maxwell Brangman were found near the Black Horse Tavern, in St. David's, on Sunday, September 21, and Monday, September 22. Two men have been charged in connection with their alleged murders.