ALMOST half the bikers stopped during a weekend police operation in North Yorkshire were committing an offence.

Nine motorcyclists have already lost their lives in accidents in the county this year, compared with 23 last year - and police are determined to prevent any more.

So, as soaring temperatures tempted bikers out on to country roads on Sunday, police traffic officers, the Vehicle Inspectorate, representatives from Datatag and the British Motorcycle Federation set up checkpoints around the Yorkshire Dales National Park, to test how many were legal.

Of the 77 motorcyclists pulled over, 30 were committing offences. Five bikes were in such a dangerous condition that the owners were not allowed to continue their journeys.

The remaining machines were found to be fitted with illegal exhaust systems or registration plates, or were stopped for speeding - one travelling at above 90mph.

"These operations will continue throughout the summer," said Sergeant John Lumbard.

"From roadside conversations, it is clear there is support for the initiative because it is targeted at the hooligan element spoiling biking for the vast majority who simply want to enjoy a pleasant day out on country roads amid magnificent scenery."