Jeff Colbourne
Northern News Services

NNSL (Sep 16/98) - What do big, tough, tattoo-covered, leather-wearing bikers and small, innocent young children have in common?

Nothing it seems. But one thing's for sure, both love their toys.

And never was that more apparent that during the fourth annual toy drive held last Saturday in the city.

A record number of stuffed toys and games were collected by Harley's Hard Rock Saloon and the Yellowknife Motorcycle Riders Group.

"It's done to help the needy children more than anything else," said Fred Squires, Harleys' owner.

With chrome shining, engines perfectly tuned and toys stuffed, taped and tied everywhere possible, the 20 or so bikers made their way around town creating a little awareness about the need to help the less fortunate in Yellowknife.

Squires says bikers have a special connection with the young children. Children look at motorcycle riders for who they are rather than in terms of the stereotypes bikers are often branded with.

The toys will be kept at the Hard Rock Saloon for a couple of days before being taken to the YWCA Allison McAteer House. Over $1,000 was collected as well for the Stanton Foundation, which is on par with donations in previous years.

Any additional toys from the public can be dropped off at Harley's Franklin Street bar.