MOTORCYCLISTS are encouraged to start the new year by improving their driving skills.

Biker Down is a free training course for motorcyclists of all ages and experience and is run by bikers for bikers.

It offers motorcyclists the chance to learn practical skills to help avoid being involved in a crash, as well as essential first-aid training and advice on what to do should they find themselves first on the scene of a crash where someone is injured.

Riders Kathryn and Guy Morton put their newly-acqured skills to good use when they came across a crash involving two bikes on the M6.

One rider ended in a four foot ditch.

Kathryn said: “I checked the motorcyclist was conscious and breathing and made sure the bike was put back into its vertical position without having to move the casualty.

“He was very distressed and desperate to remove his helmet. Although not ideal, I convinced him to let us help him remove his helmet safely, while carefully supporting his neck and head – using the method taught on the course.”

The rider has now made a full recovery.

Colin Heyes, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Services road safety manager said: “We want people to enjoy riding their bikes on our roads but we also want them to be safe.

“We hope that by educating and informing bikers about the possible dangers on our roads, we can help them be avoided.

“Riders’ skills can fade considerably after a few months off their bike. “The course will equip riders with the necessary skills and knowledge to keep them safe on the roads.

“I fully encourage bikers to attend this free course, and refresh their skills before the motorcycle season begins in the spring.”

Three generations of women from the same family, the eldest being 90, recently completed the course.

A team of occupational therapists whose work takes them out busy roads every day thoroughly recommend the course.

The next Biker Down courses are on Sunday, January 28 and Sunday February, 25.

Both run from 12 noon until 4pm at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service HQ in Winsford.

Places are limited.

To book visit bikerdown@cheshirefire.gov.uk.

For more information visit cheshirefire.gov.uk/public-safety/road-safety/biker-down.

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