Pierre's top of the Hogwash pops

BURNOUT favourite Pierre Rive gave the Hogwash crowds what they wanted. Pierre, 39, entered the arena revving his Kawasaki Z1000 and soon sent smoke swirling around the field. He picked Claire Fischer, 28, to join him on the bike and before long people heard the tyre pop, sending rubber flying into the crowds. It was the sixth time he had succeeded in blowing a tyre in the 10 Hogwashes. 'The secret is not to be embarrassed by the crowds,' he said. 'It is a spectator sport and if you can turn the bike as you are doing it, or bring on a passenger, then all the better.' This was the last time that the crowds will be able to watch the event, as Saturday was the last annual Hogwash. 'I am sad to see it close after 10 years. It hasn't been financially viable for the last couple of years and, unfortunately, I could only peg it at this level,' said co-organiser Phil Page. 'I've certainly enjoyed today and there isn't a sad face here, but we're going to take a year off. If we get the sponsorship deals, we are looking to put on something spectacular in 2005.' A number of visiting bike groups, including three Hell's Angels, came along to see the burnout, listen to the rock bands, have a few beers and chat to other bikers. Many pitched tents around the edge of the field, in the lanes above King's Mills, and socialised through to the early hours of Sunday morning. 'Guernsey is beautiful and this has been a fantastic event,' said Hell's Angel Kenny. Nick Degnen's 1997 Harley-Davidson Fatboy won the best bike in show and best paintwork with its bio-art design. 'It's my everyday bike and only form of transport. I'm absolutely delighted to win a trophy,' he said. 'There are some other really good bikes around to look at. It's always a good show and it is a shame it is the last.' A lot of people who went along during the afternoon had been many times before. 'It is always a good day out. There is something for everyone and it will be missed,' said Ady Tee, as he watched the burnout event.