With so much talk about disrupted flights, deficits and difficult times ahead, road safety officers are expecting many more people to take a ‘staycation’ this year. This will undoubtedly mean more people driving long distances, but a particular concern is for motorcycle riders who will load their bikes with pillion passengers and luggage, to ride to holiday destinations as far afield as Cornwall and Scotland.

Warwickshire’s Road Safety Unit is expecting to see increased numbers of motorcycle tourers travelling from – and through – the county during June, July and August, as Road Safety Officer Stephen Rumble explains; “Many local motorcycle riders will pack up and head for popular UK holiday destinations, as well as big motorcycling events such as the Isle of Man TT races, European rounds of Moto GP races and Superbike championships. Most probably don’t travel with a fully laden machine for 95% of the year and don’t regularly ride long distances, so a few hints and tips would help for safer long distance travels. Now is probably the best time to take a day off and polish up your riding skills. A perfect solution is offered by the county councils’ own ‘Take Control’ scheme; which includes a dedicated one-day assessment for full licence holders at a subsidised rate of just £30“.     

Information about the free and subsidised Take Control scheme for motorcyclists who live in, or travel through Warwickshire, can be found at www.takecontroltraining.co.uk Bookings can also be made seven days a week by calling 0845 370 91 91.