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Bullied Teen Escorted To Prom By 1,500 Bikers In Unforgettable Show Of Support

July 8, 2025

What started as a father’s simple request turned into a powerful and heartwarming moment of solidarity for a bullied teen in Swindon, Wiltshire.

Credit: Reidy's Photos

Sixteen-year-old Josh Duff had endured years of bullying at school for “being different.” As his time in secondary school came to a close, his father Craig—an avid biker—hoped to lift his son’s spirits by reaching out to local riders. He asked if a few could join him in escorting Josh to his prom, just to give his son a joyful send-off.

The response was nothing short of astonishing.

Credit: Reidy's Photos

On prom night, more than 1,500 bikers from all across the UK—and even beyond—roared into town in a powerful show of support. The huge convoy turned heads, drew crowds, and made Josh’s entrance one to remember.

“It’s insane, I’m still in shock,” Josh said, beaming in his handmade black suit. “I used to say I felt alone, but I don’t feel that way anymore.”

Josh and his family | Credit: Reidy's Photos

The family had only expected a few dozen bikers, but word spread quickly online. Messages of encouragement poured in from around the world—including Australia, South Africa, China, and the U.S.—as strangers connected with Josh’s story.

His parents were deeply moved.

“The last three years were very difficult for Josh,” said his mom Frances. “But he kept going. And this, this shows him he’s never truly alone.”

Credit: Reidy's Photos

Crowds gathered to take photos, share kind words, and even hand Josh early birthday cards—he turned 16 the very next day. For Josh, who dreams of becoming a pediatric therapist to help other children facing challenges, the support he received made him feel “over the moon.”

His father reflected on the incredible outpouring:

“We wanted Josh to finish this chapter of life on a high note, not defined by the negativity he faced. The biker community showed him—and all of us—that love can be louder than hate.”

Credit: Reidy's Photos

Josh hopes his story will inspire other kids who are struggling with bullying.

“With the bullies, if you just ignore them and power through, you can expect a great result.”

Credit: Reidy's Photos

All photos featured in this article were captured by Angela Reid of Reidy's Photos. To view more moments from this incredible event, visit Reidy's Photos on Facebook / Website / Smugmug.