AN initiative has been launched to help young people enjoy the safe and responsible use of motorcycles.

Richmondshire Area Motorcycle Project (Ramp) is a five-week course. It offers the opportunity for riders to experience motorcycling in a safe and controlled environment, culminating in a day's off-road riding.

It began on Saturday morning, at Risedale Community College Youth Centre, in Hipswell.

North Yorkshire Police's western road policing team, based at Richmond, provided a session on road safety.

The Royal Military Police are providing two motorcycle officers, to bring their expertise in off-road riding.

Police community support officer and project co-ordinator, Kev Mason, said: "This is an excellent opportunity for young people to attend a five-week course and attain the skills necessary to ride a motorcycle safely.

"It will also highlight the need for both parents and their children to take some responsibility not to ride machines illegally on the highways and byways of Richmondshire.

"It is also a great way for youngsters to integrate with the staff who will support the project, and hopefully learn a great deal from the 18 volunteers who are all very experienced motorcyclists."

The course is fully booked, but young people are asked to contact Gill Morrissey, on (01748) 834287, to register an interest in forthcoming courses.