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Thousands of bikers have arrived in the capital to show their support for a former British soldier facing murder charges over Bloody Sunday killings.

The Rolling Thunder bikers descended on central London from across the country to hold the protest.

Pictures show large groups on motorbikes making their way through the streets.

Before the event around 20,000 bikers were expected.

Photos on the group's Facebook page show bikers gathering at service stations across the UK.

The ride-out is being staged in support of "Soldier F", a 77-year-old Army veteran who faces charges of murder after killing two civil rights demonstrators in Londonderry, Northern Ireland, in 1972.

Fred Staszewski, one of the riders, posted on the Facebook site: "Just a heads up, please be aware that this Friday, April 12 there will be many motorcycles on ALL roads leading to London.

(Image: Facebook)

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

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

The Met Police posted on Twitter that a "huge number" of bikers had shown up, and urged Londoners to "show some legendary London hospitality and make allowances, this goes for all the demos today".

Riders met at various points outside the capital, including Thurrock Motorway Services Area in Grays, Essex.

(Image: Facebook)

(Image: Facebook)

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."

The Met Police are working with organisers and will be supervising the event.

(Image: Facebook)

"Soldier F" will face charges for the murders of James Wray and William McKinney and the attempted murders of Joseph Friel, Michael Quinn, Joe Mahon and Patrick O'Donnell, prosecutors say.

On January 20, 1972, 14 civilians and another 14 were wounded when troops from 1 Para fired at demonstrators in the Bogside area of Londonderry.

The day became known as Bloody Sunday and is remembered as one of the darkest days of the Northern Ireland Troubles.

(Image: Facebook)

"We are indebted to the soldiers who served with courage and distinction to bring peace to Northern Ireland.

"Although the decision to prosecute was taken by the Northern Ireland Public Prosecution Service, which is independent from Government, we will offer full legal and pastoral support to the individual affected," said a government spokesman.