THIRTY local motorcyclists will be taking part of the first ever Motorcycle Road Safety Challenge training course next weekend.

Organised by the local police force as part of their BikeSafe 2000 campaign, the volunteers will hear two lectures on safer riding and roadside first aid.

The course is free of charge and has been given by police and ambulance officers in their own time.

The classroom tuition culminates with an individual 'observed' ride with a police motorcyclist, followed by a written assessment. Successful students will be presented with a certificate which will entitle them to discounts at Frank Sheperds Motorcycles and Bikes 'R' Safe in Lancaster.

PC Keith Collins, a Lancaster police motorcyclist who is leading the bike safe campaign, said there had been an overwhelming response and there was now a waiting list.

He said: "The lectures and rider assessments have been devised for those new to biking or looking to improve their riding skills. Many riders have returned to motorcycling after a gap of several years and there has been an increase in the numbers of riders having accidents on high powered sports machines.

If you would like to take part in the scheme call PC Keith Collins on 596699.

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