Police work to reduce motorcyclist deaths

Since January 1 this year six motorcyclists from Leicestershire have died in a road collision. Two motorcyclists and one scooter rider have died in road collisions in the Melton borough since January 1, with another motorcyclist seriously hurt in another incident.

Officers from the four forces of the East Midlands Operational Support Service (Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire) run Bikesafe workshops throughout the year.

They explore the main riding hazards that bikers face. Police riders deliver theory presentations and then everyone goes out on an observed ride so officers can help riders discover their strengths and weaknesses and how to develop their riding.

Bikesafe co-ordinator Pc Darren Blaylock said: “We think riding should be fun and by improving skills, knowledge and hazard awareness the Bikesafe courses will hopefully make riding safer and therefore more enjoyable.

“Sadly this year too many bikers have already died on the roads of the East Midlands and we know the numbers are likely to go up in the spring and summer as the nicer weather brings more bikers out.

“That’s why we want to encourage as many bikers as possible to seek further education and training after they finish their compulsory basic training.

“Motorcyclists currently account for 23 percent of all fatalities within the East Midlands which is far higher than the amount of bikes on our roads compared to cars, lorries or vans.”

Bikesafe is a one day course which costs £45 and includes lunch. All Bikesafe courses have to be booked through www.bikesafe.co.uk

All courses start from Leicestershire Police’s headquarters in Enderby at 8.45am. Dates for the next courses are July 24, August 13, September 4 and 11 and October 8 and 29.