THE Health and Safety Executive is to target quad bike users in Teesdale and Weardale next month.

Inspectors will visit farms to check that quad bike users have been adequately trained, that they wear suitable head protection, and that their vehicles are properly maintained, particularly regarding tyre pressures, brakes and steering.

They will also visit dealers who supply quad bikes to check the safety information they give customers.

Transport-related incidents, including ATVs, accounted for 12 of the 32 fatal accidents in agriculture last year, and in this region a gamekeeper was killed last year while riding a quad bike.

"Our inspectors commonly meet farmers who think they don't need to wear a helmet or get any formal training," said Peter Dodman, HSE's principal inspector for agriculture in the region.

"During the blitz we will take enforcement action, including issuing Prohibition and Improvement Notices where appropriate, and I would urge everyone in the industry to ensure that they and their equipment meet the required standards."

Milking event

SPECIALIST milking systems expert Ian Ohnstad from ADAS will next week look at improving the performance from milking machines and avoiding mastitis/teat end damage.

On Tuesday he will attend a Milk Development Council event at Low Whinholme Farm, Danby Wiske, from 11.30-2pm and on Wednesday at Newcastle University's Nafferton Farm, Stocksfield, again 11.30-2pm.

Attendance is free to all levy payers and staff. Contact Jo Speed on 0191 520 8498 for details and directions.