A SECOND safety drive to cut the number of motorbike accidents on Lancashire roads has been launched by road safety experts.

The campaign follows the success of last year's high profile Bike Safe 2000.

Police say the growing popularity of powerful bikes among older riders is a major factor behind the sudden increase.

Although the number of road deaths fell in Lancashire last year there was still a rise in the number of motorbike riders involved in fatal accidents.

A special information unit is set to tour the county over the summer months and will concentrate on areas popular with bikers.

The trailer will be staffed by traffic police and paramedics who will hand out advice and information on a one to one basis.

Sgt Bev Saycell of the road safety unit said: "We recognise that the county has a problem with road accidents involving motorcyclists and we believe the way forward is through education.

"We shall also be working with neighbouring police forces as well as the local authorities throughout the county to address the issue."

Sgt Saycell added: "The Bike Safe Message is reaching the target audience as last year saw an increase in the number of riders attending the county council's Back to Biking course.

"We want this trend to continue through the year with more riders recognising the need for additional training."