THE growing number of motorcyclists killed or injured on North Yorkshire's roads so far this year has prompted calls for new deterrents.

Traffic police already run the nationally-renowned Bike Safe initiative, pioneered in the county and now accepted as best practice around the UK.

It combines law enforcement with road safety education, encouraging motorcyclists to take a responsible attitude towards the power and speed of modern machines.

Officers claim a level of success is evident in reports of bikers riding within speed limits and showing courtesy and consideration for other road users.

However, North Yorkshire County Council's Richmondshire area committee said at a meeting this week that a hard core remain who use the roads as racetracks, putting lives at risk.

Suggestions at the meeting included expanding the security TV network and signs highlighting how many motorcyclists have been prosecuted for speeding on notorious stretches of roads