New initiatives target 'Ped' and scooter riders

Two new initiatives have been launched to try to reduce casualties among scooter and moped riders.

'Pop swilling, junk food-eating youths' are the target for the www.twistandgo4it.com campaign, which provides information to make scootering practical, fun and above all safe.

The website launched on 16 May and provides riders with riding and hazard awareness advice, news, games, tips to prevent scooter theft, and advice about scooter clothing.

Southampton City Council launched the campaign in local bars, washrooms, universities and scooter shops. An e-marketing campaign will follow in due course.

The scooter magazine Twist and Go has teamed up with the campaign development team to help populate and promote the site.

The campaign has been designed with cult status in mind. Lucy Lockit, Nicky Newsworthy, Penny Play, Heidi Hazzard, Trudy Topgear, Fiona Feedback and Ruby Ridewell help riders navigate the site in a retro 70's soft porn style.

For further information contact RSO Neil Ellison, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, 01642 526736.

While in many parts of the country motorcycling casualties appear to be most likely among full licence holders on fairly big bikes, in Bromley riders in the 15-19 years age range are most vulnerable.

According to Bromley's Road Safety Unit, many of these youngsters show a lack of experience and basic road knowledge - and wearing inappropriate clothing also contributes to injuries.

Over the last few years Bromley has developed a strategy to try to improve the situation and, as part of this strategy, has recently produced the Motorbike Rider Education Book.

The book covers a variety of topics including documents, examples of crashes, correct clothing, hazard perception, bike control and positioning, and further training.

It is primarily intended for youngsters who express an interest in getting a 'Ped' during a Year 11 presentation. However, the book can also be distributed through schools or colleges, moped dealers and trainers - or via parents.

For a free sample book contact Bromley's Road Safety Unit on 0208 313 4546 or road.safety@bromley.gov.uk