11 July 2008

The second of Winslow Fire Station’s four informal summer drop-in sessions for motorcyclists takes place later this month. It will run from 10am to 2pm on Sunday 20 July.

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.

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.

“Nationally, motorcyclists account for about one per cent of road traffic but more than 15 per cent of fatalities in collisions. 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 remaining two dates – also on Sundays, from 10am to 2pm – are 24 August and 21 September.

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.