Motorcyclists in Devon are being asked to test drive a new training course which will improve both their own safety and that of other bikers in the county.

The Rider Development Course is part of Devon County Council's ongoing motorcycle safety campaign, 'Bringing Bikers Out Of The Blindspot'.

The free course is aimed at all riders, regardless of their ability and experience, and aims to improve and fine-tune all aspects of their skills. The course will look in particular at cornering, appropriate use of speed, overtaking and filtering. As well as improving their own technical abilities, the course will also look at skills such as hazard perception which will help riders compensate for a lack of skills of other road users.

Volunteers who book themselves onto the limited number of places on the course will work with the trainers and course developers to give them essential feedback to help make improvements.

Once these evaluation days are completed, and the developers are satisfied that the format is affordable, accessible and effective, the course will be made available to all motorcyclists in Devon.

Course dates are: Seaton - Saturday 7 February Barnstaple - Saturday 7 February Exeter - Sunday 8 February Plymouth - Wednesday 11 February Barnstaple - Saturday 14 February Exeter - Saturday 14 February Seaton - Sunday 15 February Plymouth - Wednesday 18 Februar

Executive Member for the Environment, Councillor David Morrish, said: 'Better training for motorcyclists has been one of our major goals for improving their safety. We now need their help in making these courses effective so everyone can benefit.'

Devon County Council Road Safety Officer, Michael Newcombe, said 'We are looking at every opportunity to work with bikers to ensure what we are offering is going to make a real difference. From the results of our summer consultation, bikers are telling us that better training is essential to reduce casualties in Devon. We now need to hear from volunteers of all abilities and experience to help us develop the best possible courses for Devon's riders.'

The 'Bringing Bikers Out Of The Blindspot' campaign was launched last year to try to reduce motorcycle casualties in the county. In 2002, motorcyclists made up only 2 per cent of all traffic, yet accounted for a quarter of all fatal accidents with a total of 100 motorcyclists either killed or seriously injured in Devon.

Motorcyclists interested in participating in the courses can receive further details by contacting Michael Newcombe on 01271 388496 or email bikers@devon.gov.uk

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