A group of motorcyclists will be breaking out of one haunted prison and locking themselves into another – all in the name of charity.

On Friday 6 June, the Cruise4Crews charity ride will roar into action from Shepton Mallet Prison, as dozens of bikers hit the road on a one-of-a-kind journey to raise funds for YFW Blood Bikes – the volunteer riders who deliver life-saving blood and medical supplies across the UK.

The starting point? None other than Shepton Mallet Prison, the world's oldest working prison until it closed in 2013 – and now better known for its ghost tours and grim history. From 10am, the prison's gates will swing open to welcome an army of bikes and their leather-clad riders, who will set off across the country bound for Shrewsbury Prison, another decommissioned jail with its own spooky reputation.

And this isn't just a casual ride-out. The group – riding in formations of five – will arrive at Shrewsbury for a special charity sleepover behind bars. They'll spend the night locked up in the haunted Victorian prison, only being released the next morning… assuming they behave.

"Cruise4Crews was started by a bunch of bikers who wanted to find ways to combine our love of motorcycling with raising money for charities,'' said Mike Matthews, one of the organisers. "We got chatting and started coming up with silly ideas and fun ways to make bike rides about more than just heading to the seaside for an ice cream."

The idea for a prison-to-prison ride was hatched years ago, but was postponed when Covid hit. "I didn't want to give up on such a unique way to raise much-needed funds for the incredible volunteers of Blood Bikes," Mike added. "With the support of local businesses and Cove Attractions, we're thrilled that this ride-out – Prison Bike – is finally going ahead!"

Spectators are welcome to come down to Shepton Mallet Prison on the morning of the ride to check out the bikes, meet the riders, and show their support.

And if you've got a motorbike and a sense of adventure, there's still time to get involved. A Cruise4Crews spokesperson said a few spots remain for riders to join the event. To sign up or donate, visit their Facebook page at: facebook.com/Cruise4crews