THE region's bikers are being told to enjoy the pleasures of the open road this bank holiday weekend - but return home safe.
That is the message from the Highways Agency, which wants to cut the number of motorcyclists killed or injured on motorways and trunk roads.
In 2003, there were 65 serious road accidents on motorways and trunk roads in the North-East and North Yorkshire, in which 12 people were killed. Three of the deaths were in Northumberland, two in Durham, one in the Teesside area, and six in North Yorkshire.
Highways Agency safety co-ordinator Stuart Lovatt said: "Motorcyclists enjoy their pastime with a passion, but we want them to return home safe and sound this bank holiday.
"It is about much more than just reducing accident figures - every accident is a personal tragedy.
"Bikers can do a lot to keep themselves safe and other motorists can play their part by keeping a lookout for motorcyclists, especially on routes that are popular with bikers.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article