Sign up for Safe Rider training workshops

We are great fans of the Safe Rider training scheme to help cut the number of motorbike deaths and serious injuries.

A joint initiative between Suffolk and Norfolk police, the one-day workshops are aimed at fully-qualified riders, from post-test novices to experienced riders, who want to improve their skills.

The dates for this year’s workshops, usually on Saturdays, are:

• April 2
• May 7
• May 21
• June 18
• July 1 (Friday)
• July 16
• August 27
• September 24
• October 15

Director Rob Walters, who has done the Safe Rider course, said: “We support Safe Rider, and have for many years, and many of our staff have done it.

“It’s something we feel is very important and would recommend it.”

The relaxed sessions, which are about education rather than enforcement, introduce riders to the police roadcraft system, the cornerstone of police riding.

Riders get professional advice about their strengths and weaknesses, a demonstration ride by a police officer and an assessment of their riding with written feedback.

The ride out groups are a maximum of three riders to one police officer.

The workshops are held at Martlesham Heath police HQ or Orwell Motorcycles.

Participants do some preparation reading on the roadcraft system, particularly positioning and cornering, which will be discussed in depth on the escorted ride out.

Workshops cost £50. Riders aged under 25 get 50% off and it is free for the first six of those to book.

To reserve a place call PC Simon Myall or PC Andy Masterson in the Motorcycle Casualty Reduction Team on 01473 613888 extension 3722 or email saferider@suffolk.police.uk