BIKERS are being offered the chance to improve their skills thanks to a series of "Bikesafe" workshops.

North Yorkshire Police and the 95 Alive York and North Yorkshire Road Safety Partnership are offering the classes as part of the continuing drive to reduce road casualties in the county.

They say that with bikes getting faster and more powerful it is important that riders have the necessary skills to enable them to handle their machines properly -and legally- and get the best out of them.

Sergeant Pete Mason said: "It is a well-known fact that very few riders appreciate the need or are willing to pay for further training after passing their Driving Standards Agency bike test.

"We aim to bridge the gap between that basic skill level and the kind of further training that enables riders to combine tremendous enjoyment with a much higher level of personal safety.

"Enhancing your skills is statistically proven to make you much less likely to become a casualty on the roads.

"We are not here to train, just to give you a taste of advanced riding skills, so hopefully you can continue to improve."

The workshops cost £50 and consist of two modules - an introductory session at Thirsk police station and a practical one - which take place on Sundays from 9.30am - 4.30pm.

Workshops are scheduled for March 28, April 18, May 23, June 20, July 18 and August 8. Early booking is advised as places are limited.

For further information contact Sergeant Pete Mason on 01904 618870 or email northyorkshirepolice@bikesafe.co.uk