KIDDERMINSTER Advanced Bikers are working in conjunction with West Mercia Safer Roads Partnership and the Institute of Advanced Motorists with an aim to improve safety on roads.
The group, which is made up of enthusiastic, experienced bikers, formed around 30 years ago and were formally known as the Worcestershire Advanced Motorcyclists.
Derek Baker, group secretary, said: “We changed the group name as we were conscious that people didn’t know where we were based. Changing the name to Kidderminster Advanced Bikers makes our group easier to locate and to make the group more appealing to the younger biker.
“We felt that the name Worcestershire Advanced Motorcyclists was old fashioned and was too broad geographically. What we actually do is train bikers in advanced riding techniques enabling them to adapt to the ever changing road conditions and negotiate traffic safely without compromising the fun element of riding.”
They are based at Kidderminster Fire Station, in Castle Road, and the collaboration came about thanks to the generosity of the Bob Sproat, the station commander, who is also keen to promote road safety within the local community.
He said: “As a service we are constantly seeking to work with partner agencies to improve safety within our communities and having pro-active partners, like Kidderminster Advanced Bikers, working collaboratively with us in Wyre Forest is a great initiative for all.”
The group have a planned Skills Day at the Motorcycle Mart, in Stourport Road, on Saturday, May 23, where free assessment rides are being offered to any motorcyclist with a full licence, interested in learning more about advance riding techniques.
This is followed by an Open Day at the fire station on Saturday, July 4.
Mr Baker said: “The fire station will be open to the general public with fire fighters on hand to show people around, introduce them to the latest fire fighting equipment and answer any questions people may have.
“Also present will be Severn Rescue; a group of fully trained volunteers providing lifesaving services on land and water.
“Kidderminster Advanced Bikers will be present to talk with individuals about road safety and the training programmes available to bikers.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here