A SENIOR Roads Policing officer from Lothians and Scottish Borders has urged motorbike riders to think of the consequences of taking risks when biking.

Inspector Stephen Quinn wants to see everyone make the most of the good weather but to get home safely.

Inspector Quinn is the latest officer from the region to address the public as part of a series of columns.

He said: My name is Stephen Quinn and I am the Inspector for Road Policing across the Lothians and Scottish Borders area. 

“ I am grateful for this opportunity to share with you some of the activity that Road Policing officers will be carrying out across the region this summer.

“Across the Lothians and Scottish Borders, Road Policing officers will be regularly patrolling in marked and unmarked vehicles to ensure the roads are safe for all.

“One major focus of our activity over the summer is the increased use of motorcycles on the road. 

“Scotland has some of the best biking roads in the world, however, if we are to have the best Road Safety in the world to go with it then we all have our part to play.

“Our annual Motorcycle Safety campaign launched last month seeing education, engagement and enforcement taking place across the area. 

“As the (hopefully) good weather comes along, more motorcyclists will take to the roads to make the most of their weekends.  I would urge all bikers to think of the personal consequences of taking risks when biking.

“Equally, I would remind all road users that the safety of bikers and other vulnerable road users depends on each and every one of us.

“Around 90% of all motorcycle casualties are male and almost a third killed are aged 40-49 years.  More than 85% of motorcycle casualties happen in rural areas, during the daytime and in good weather.

“Motorcycling is an excellent way to explore the country and I want all our local riders to enjoy their free time out and about.  But more importantly, I want all to get home safe at the end of the ride and would ask everyone to play their part to make sure this happens.

“We will also be carrying out our summer drink and drug driving campaign in July.  It always remains disappointing to me that in this day and age, drink driving still continues to be an issue. 

“Our officers are also trained to carry out roadside drugs testing and will be actively targeting offenders. 

“When it comes to drink and drug driving the message I would emphasise is to consider the potential loss of licence, the potential criminal record, the potential for loss of your job, house and family.  And more importantly the potential for killing someone, including yourself.  It is simply not worth it.

“Thank you and I hope you have a fantastic summer.”