POLICE have named a Herefordshire road as one where motorcyclists should take particular care.

West Mercia Constabulary is reminding bikers of the potential dangers of riding on the A49 between Hereford and Ross to stress the importance of keeping safe on the county’s roads.

The warning comes after force reports show that 10 bikers died in the West Mercia area between April 1 and July 13 this year, compared to six riders during the same period in 2007.

“Rural areas such as Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire attract large numbers of leisure motorcyclists using powerful sports bikes and the majority of collisions occur on the main roads across the force area,” said Superintendent Matt Mead.

“Many motorcycle collisions are caused by the riders’ lack of skill or knowledge of the area, combined with riding at excessive and inappropriate speeds, so it is vital that bikers ride in accordance with the law and within their own capabilities.

“However, it is important to remember that a proportion of collisions are caused by motorists in cars, vans and lorries failing to see motorcyclists.

“We would like to remind all road users to pay close attention to what is happening around them when they are driving or riding, especially when they are overtaking, or approaching or pulling out of a junction.”

He added that the force would be carrying out enforcement activities on routes that were well used by bikers.

“Our high-profile enforcement patrols, which will include the use of our force helicopter, along with unmarked video-equipped vehicles, will be targeting the minority of riders who are a danger on the roads and who risk their lives, and the lives of others, by riding at excessive speeds and indulging in risky and dangerous manoeuvres,” said Superintendent Mead.

“These bikers give all motorcyclists a bad name and their irresponsible behaviour will only end in tragedy.

“West Mercia is keen to encourage safe and sensible riding. We want to reduce the number of bikers who are killed and injured each year. Our simple message is kill your speed, not yourself.

“West Mercia Constabulary is committed to making the roads across the force area safer for all road users and reducing the number of people who are killed and injured on them each year.”

For bikers out and about in the West Midlands, the other roads on the list are: A451 Great Witley to Stourbridge, A442 Bridgnorth to Whitchurch, A458 Six Ashes to Bridgnorth, A41 Tong to Whitchurch, A38 Worcester to Rubery, B5065 Newport to Shrewsbury and B4373 Bridgnorth to Telford.

For more information about motorbike safety, visit westmercia.police.uk