A MOTORCYCLE equipped with digital recording devices will be deployed on Borders roads this weekend in a bid to catch dangerous drivers.

There has been a record number of accidents on the region's roads this year, with three motorcyclists killed in just the last few months.

And police are sending the unmarked motorbike to patrol the A68, A702, A7 and the A697, from Friday, July 29 to Sunday, 31, with the aim of prosecuting those motorcyclists driving without due care.

Inspector Roddy MacMillan, Trunk Roads Inspector for the East of Scotland, said: "We have seen nine motorcyclists killed and others seriously injured already this summer.

"The consequences of driving or riding dangerously can be devastating for the families, if someone is killed or seriously injured as a result. 

"It is my officers who knock on the doors of their loved ones to let them know their relative has been killed and it never gets any easier.

"I am an experienced motorcyclist and I understand the thrill and enjoyment of motorcycling, but I am committed to using all means at my disposal, to discourage dangerous and inappropriate driving and riding to keep people safe on Scotland’s roads."

Officers from the Safety Camera Unit will support these patrols and any offences identified will be dealt with.

Police will also be in attendance to engage with motorcyclists and other road users and provide safety information on appropriate driving and riding practices.

Inspector MacMillan added: "Motorcyclists are more vulnerable than other road users, especially when overtaking and negotiating left hand bends.

"There is already an increase in the volume of tourist and foreign drivers, who are unfamiliar with the roads, so I would encourage motorcyclists to slow down, use their observation skills, and take extra care when planning overtakes.

"With our unmarked police motorcycle deployed, the chances of being caught should you opt to disregard the speed limit or other road traffic offences have never been higher.

"A number of offenders have already been detected for speeding and driving dangerously or carelessly on previous weekends during this operation. Don't risk it!"