FIVE motorcyclists were cautioned for speeding over the Easter weekend as part of a joint operation to combat problems caused by motorcyclists in Bidford-on Avon, Salford Priors and Alcester.

Run by the Safer Roads Partnership, Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police, specialist units involving motorcycle police, speed enforcement officers and the Operational Patrol Unit (OPU) team were involved in the initiative on Saturday and Sunday.

Activity focussed on Kinwarton Road in Alcester, Tower Hill in Bidford and the B4088 in Salford Priors.

Anna Higgins, Communications Manager at the Safer Roads Partnership, said over the two days officers clocked 30 offences, most of which were dealt with by education, while one vehicle was seized for having no insurance.

"We were pleased the majority of motorists were adhering to the speed limit," she said. "Through local operations like this one, and by supporting the national Think Bike campaign, we aim to make motorcyclists more aware of the risks that are present when they are out on the roads and help us reduce the amount of collisions that take place.”

The operation, which will continue over the spring and summer months, aims to provide a highly visible deterrent to speeding motorists and motorcyclists as well as cracking down on inappropriate riding and nuisance offences such as noise.

Sergeant Stuart Allen, from the Operational Policing Unit at Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police, said: “In the spring and summer, particularly on nice weekends, these three locations in South Warwickshire are always busy with bikers testing their skills, and often racing up and down.

"This action is also being taken in support of people living around the areas who have complained through their safer neighbourhood team or parish council about the noise and high speeds of the machines involved.

“We intend to continue with this initiative until the message gets through to the minority of motorists causing the problems that their activities will not be tolerated.

"It also demonstrates that the police and the Safer Roads Partnership listen to community concern and act upon it where necessary.”