Devon County Council

From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, November 17, 2008

"Get yourself heard" is the message that Devon County Council will give to motorcyclists at the next Peninsula Motorcycle Forum on Saturday (22 November).

The meeting at Exeter University at 9:15am will be the second time the forum has been held. It is a regular, free event arranged twice a year to ensure motorcyclists are involved and informed about rider safety.

Motorcyclists who attend the forum can listen to speakers from various agencies on issues that directly affect bikers and have the opportunity to ask questions and give their opinions on how to improve rider safety in the region.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "The Peninsula Motorcycle Forum brings together road safety professionals and motorcyclists concerned with the shared aim of reducing the number of motorcycle fatalities and injuries in Devon and Cornwall. It has already had a positive response from bikers keen to find out about what work is already being done, and enables them to offer their views on how current schemes can be extended and improved upon."

The Peninsula Motorcycle Forum comprises of a mix of key representatives including Devon and Cornwall Constabulary, the Highways Agency, Local Authorities, including Devon County Council, and the Devon and Cornwall Safety Camera Partnership.

Michael Newcombe, Devon County Council Road Safety Officer, added: "Improving safety for riders and reducing crashes is one of our key goals. Over the last few years, we have adopted a pro-bike stance to encourage the safe and sensible use of motorcycles. This is a real opportunity for the motorcycling community to come along, hear what improvements have been made and share their thoughts."

Any riders who would like to attend should email bikers@devon.gov.uk to express their interest and receive an agenda and location map. Places are limited so early contact is advised.

Notes to Editors:

Councillor Margaret Rogers, 01297 680384.

Michael Newcombe, Devon County Council Road Safety Officer, 01271 388496.