The latest Department for Transport drink-drive statistics released today show an increase in the number of drink-drive casualties.

• Provisional estimates for 2012 show that 290 people were killed in drink drive accidents in the Great Britain, an increase of a quarter compared with 2011.
• There was a 5 per cent decrease in seriously injured drink drive casualties in 2012 to around 1, 200.
• 220 fatal drink drive accidents in 2011 resulting in 230 deaths, the lowest number of deaths since reporting began in 1979.
• Since 1979 (when reporting began), there has been an almost six-fold reduction in the number killed in drink drive accidents.

IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig said: “The number of people killed or seriously injured by drink drivers is the real indicator of success in dealing with those who present the biggest danger on our roads.   The IAM is concerned that despite continued police campaigns the message does not seem to be getting through to a minority of drivers.”

“This increase shows the critical need for the DfT to reverse cuts in publicity funding and continue to ram home the message that drink driving kills.”

For news pre-July 2013... Now closed and moved

Article supplied by www.MotorcycleCompensation.com

As bikers ourselves, we thought a gentle reminder and some basic riding tips may be in order especially if you have not  ridden for a while.   Always give yourself space. People driving cars often don’t see motorcycle riders. Even when drivers do see you, chances are they’ve never been on a motorcycle and can’t properly judge your speed.   Be visible at all times:

Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time. Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night. Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle. Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have. Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping. If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.   Dress for safety: Wear a quality helmet and eye protection. Wear bright clothing and a light-coloured helmet. Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing. Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves. Remember – the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.   Apply effective mental strategies: Constantly search the road for changing conditions. Give yourself space and time to respond to other motorists’ actions. Give other motorists time and space to respond to you. Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible. Watch for turning vehicles. Signal your next move in advance. Avoid weaving between lanes. Pretend you’re invisible, and ride extra defensively. Don't ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Know and follow the rules of the road. Stick to the speed limit.   Follow these basic steps to protect you and your beloved machine.

Article supplied by www.MotorcycleCompensation.com

Wed 7th  
6pm - 11pm  
Hot Rod Night  
Josie & The Outlaw  DJ Little Carl  
Entry Free    

Sat 10th  
9pm - 2am  
Elvis Tribute Night  
Lee Jackson & The Roomates  DJ Adam Grant's Big Screen Elvis Disco  
Entry £12  Sorry no under 18s.    

Sat 31st
7pm - 11pm  
Rhythm n' Cruise Rockin' Record Hop  DJ Jimmy Guntrip  
Entry Free

www.ace-cafe-london.com

Well as ever we have spent the last few months in the STC ivory towers with copious amounts of beer, bikes and birds (studs for the girls, that don't rhyme as well but as we live in a claim culture one has to cover his back).

So what that really means is we have been rallying, just like you we are bikers and that's what we do, so far this year members of the committee have managed to attend:- •ITVBike • Small but Perfectly Reformed • Farmyard Party • Ben Hur • Brown Dog • Simmer Dim • IOM TT • MAG 40th - Blackpool • Rock n Bike Fest • & a few more I am sure Now that we are all sobering up the real work has started we have booked some bands, a tent and a few kegs of ale.

Well kind of times that by 5,000 and you are getting somewhere close, thirteen people have been scratching heads trying to work out new licensing law, health & safety, site plans, power, toilets, trader, caterers, fire crew, ambulances, radios, merchandise, fencing okay so you get the idea now read on for the important part...

The line up has been finalised and this year we have a wide range of bands old and new, its nice once again to welcome some old faces back to site. Friday Main Stage:- Emerald Thieves - A Foreigners Journey - Karma Heart - The Enzymes Iris Stage:- Steve Fulsham Band - Fickle Lilly

Saturday Main Stage:- From the Jam - The Bandits - The Kill - The Rattlers Iris Stage:- Sinnerboy - Blue Diamond - Bessi & The Zinc Buckets - Big Red & The Grinners - Trevor Sewel Band

Buy tickets online

www.storminthecastle.co.uk