Riders encouraged to wear 'the right gear'

Moped and scooter riders in London are being encouraged to wear protective clothing, in a new campaign launched by seven London boroughs.

The Right Gear campaign highlights the potential risk of wearing inappropriate clothing, and offers advice on what riders should be wearing . The campaign also warns car drivers about the consequences of failing to look out for riders.

Steve Chesterman, chairman of the working group, says: "Should you come off your bike even at low speeds the effect on your skin is like scraping along a giant cheese grater. You only have to look around you when you are in London - every day you can see people on mopeds and scooters in work wear, shorts, t shirts and skirts. They don't know the risks or they wouldn't do it." 

25-year-old Martha Williamson, from Reading, discovered the importance of wearing the correct clothing when she fell off her scooter. "I will never forget the fear that gripped my heart as I scraped along the road in my shorts and T-shirt," she said. "I had plenty of time during the two weeks it took my injuries to heal to realise my mistakes!"

The campaign includes posters, radio advertisements, a 'talking' poster campaign in washrooms in pubs, clubs and shopping centres, leaflets, and a website www.rightgearlondon.com . 

For further information contact Elaine Begley on 07801 515585 or Elaine Fee on 07841 383165.

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