Published: Tuesday, 24th November, 2009 4:51pm

Motorcycle deaths in Borders 'halved'

THE number of motorcycle deaths in the Borders has halved following the introduction of a new road safety campaign, it has emerged.

And now Lothian and Borders Police's motorcycle safety campaign, Around The Corner, has been awarded a prestigious Force Excellence Award.

Since the campaign started motorcycle fatalities in the area have fallen by 50 per cent.

The campaign, which saw police motorcyclists share their knowledge of the region's roads and bikes with amateur riders, concentrated on interacting with motorcycle enthusiasts to encourage safer riding.

Working with the local council new signage was erected to inform bikers of bends where more attention is required. The signs also made motorists more aware that they were likely to encounter a biker on the road.

In addition, to accompany the campaign, maps were created of great riding routes in the area. These can be downloaded from the dedicated website - www.aroundthecorner.org.uk. - which is full of useful tips and information on weather, road conditions and the forum is an ideal place to ask experienced bikers a question.

Lothian and Borders Police Road Safety Co-ordinator, Sandy Allan said: "The recognition that Around the Corner has now received shows that this campaign has really made a difference.

"Bikers in the Borders now visit the website before going on runs and look forward to meeting up with the professionals where they can learn new skills.

"Another indicator of the campaign's success is the interest that has been shown by other regions across the country and I'm looking forward to next year's season where we can develop Around the Corner further."