Sign up to our newsletter for daily updates and breaking news Sign up here! Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Heavy traffic is expected on the M25 today as thousand of bikers take part in a protest rally that will pass through the county.

It is expected that around 7,000 riders will take part in the journey along the Essex stretch of the motorway as the bikers head towards London.

The reason for the rally, which has been organised by armed forces veterans, is to offer support for a 77-year-old former soldier who has been charged with murder for his role in Bloody Sunday.

He faces two charges in connection with deaths in Londonderry in 1972.

As reported by Kent Live, the bikers will leave various areas of the country at different times throughout the morning to head to Westminster, where a demonstration will take place.

Those taking part in the rally from Essex will meet at the Thurrock Motorway Services Area in Grays at 11am.

There will also be meeting points along the M25 at Clacket Lane and South Mimms services, while those outside of Essex will meet at the London Gateway Services on the M1 and Heston Services on the M4.

For live updates on the rally, follow our blog here.

How many bikers will take part in the rally?

(Image: HAUN CURRY/AFP/Getty Images)

Rider Fred Staszewski wrote on Facebook to warn anyone heading on the roads into London tomorrow that 7,000 people were estimated to be on the roads around the capital.

He said: "Just a heads up, please be aware that this Friday April 12 there will be many motorcycles on ALL roads leading to London.

"There are groups of riders coming from the 4 corners of the country and it is estimated that 7,000 bikes will be in attendance.

"There are 5 designated assembly points around the M25 before the push into central London.

"Please take extra care out there on Friday and watch out for the bikers."

Another rider, Christopher Davies, added: "Rolling Thunder in support of Soldier F motorcycle ride taking place on Friday 12th April should be quite spectacular.

"The Facebook page has exceeded 12,000 since its inception in a couple of weeks.

"A possible 7,000 motorbikes will be converging on London mostly ridden by veterans although anyone is welcome on the ride."

Met Police are believed to be working with organisers to ensure the rally runs smoothly.