18 August 2008

The third of Winslow Fire Station’s four informal summer drop-in sessions for motorcyclists takes place on Sunday 24 August from 10am to 2pm.

Nationally, motorcyclists account for about one per cent of road traffic but more than 15 per cent of fatalities in collisions.

Keith Wheeler, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service's road safety manager, is providing support and resources for the events. Keith – a keen motorcyclist – said: “These sessions give us an opportunity to talk to bikers about training courses in the area and to pass on information to help make them safer riders.

“With traffic conditions these days, it's more important than ever that you can deal with the unexpected.”

Free motorbike safety checks will be on offer, along with free refreshments and free safer riding DVDs. There will also be information on what to do if you come across a crashed motorcyclist.

The events are also being supported by South Central Ambulance Service, Holland Engineering Services of Mursley, the Milton Keynes Institute of Advanced Motorists and Buckinghamshire County Council's road safety team.

Around 50 people attended the first session, which was held on 22 June. Firefighters at the station suggested the idea after seeing a similar event at a fire station in Sussex. The final one of the year will be on Sunday 21 September.