WEST Mercia Constabulary's BikeSafe scheme has lent its support to a newly-formed advanced motorcycling road safety group - with the help of a local biking MP.

The MP for Leominster, Bill Wiggin, was among the first to have his riding skills assessed by the Worcester and Hereford Advanced Motorcyclists (WHAM). The Institute of Advanced Motorists-affiliated group was formed in January 2007 and since it's inception has already recruited 50 members.

West Mercia Constabulary is supporting the WHAM group as part of its on-going drive to improve biker's skills and reduce the number of motorcyclists and pillion passengers injured in collisions on the Force's roads.

As part of their safer biking strategy, Herefordshire Council's road safety team have also given their support to WHAM's team of expert riders, who will be visiting local motorcycle gatherings biker to make sure the message of safer motorcycling reaches the biking community.