A CAMPAIGN to help reduce the number of casualties and deaths involved with motorbike collisions has been launched in Worcestershire and Warwickshire.

The Safer Roads Partnership in Warwickshire and West Mercia has launching its 2014 ‘THINK BIKE’ campaign, targeting both motorcyclists and car drivers with the aim of increasing general awareness and offering additional training to those who want it.

Over the past three years in Warwickshire and West Mercia there have been 49 fatalities and 463 serious injuries following collisions involving motorcycles.

Roadside posters are being put up along key motorcycle routes throughout the region, highlighting routes where both motorcyclists and drivers need to take care and be more aware.

As part of the campaign the partnership is also targeting those bikers who haven’t ridden during the winter months and encouraging them to make a few simple safety checks on their pride and joy before getting back on it for the new motorbike season.

Vicki Bristow, communications manager for the Safer Roads Partnership in West Mercia, said: "Both Warwickshire and West Mercia are popular with bikers and many riders are attracted to the area, particularly at weekends and when the weather is good.

"This campaign aims to make motorcyclists and car users more aware of the risks that are present when they are out on the roads and to help us reduce the amount of collisions that take place.

The Safer Roads Partnership is supporting a Rider Skills Day in Bromsgrove on May 10 where riders will have the opportunity to come along for a free one hour assessed ride-out with a qualified Institute of Advanced Motorists observer.

The partnership is also offering a ‘Take Control’ motorcycle skills enhancement course for bikers who want to brush up on their skills, gain more confidence on their bike or become a better rider in preparation for their full test.

For more information visit srpwestmercia.org.uk or warwickshire.gov.uk/motorbiketraining.