Century milestone for Spilsby motorcycle shop celebrated at town bike night

The presentation took place during Tuesday evening’s event organised by the Spilsby Rotary Club, which this year acknowledged 100 years since Wildmans motorcycle shop first opened in the town.

Although wet weather led to a quieter turnout than usual, organisers still marked the milestone with a presentation to former owner John Wildman, whose family ran the business for decades.

Wildmans motorcycle shop was originally opened in 1926 by Mr Wildman’s father. John later took over the business himself before retiring and selling the shop in 2009.

The business is now owned by Chris Lake.

During the evening, members of the Rotary Club presented Mr Wildman with a certificate and small gift recognising the original opening of the business 100 years ago and the Wildman family’s long association with the shop.

A spokesperson for the organisers said: “The photo is of Mr John Wildman. Wildmans motorcycle shop in Spilsby is 100 years old this year and it was John’s dad who opened the shop in 1926. John took over from his father until he retired.”

Despite heavy rain affecting attendance, organisers said a number of bikers and local residents still turned out to support the event.

The spokesperson added: “It was a bit of a wash out last night with the rain putting bikers off coming, but a few did turn out and a lot of locals braved the rain and came to have a look.

“Hopefully it will be back to normal next year.”

The annual event also featured live music from Lincolnshire band 11th Hour, alongside motorcycle displays, trade and charity stalls and late-night shopping in the town.