A POLICE force has come up with a new way of promoting safer motorbike riding - by taking its poster campaign on to the roads.

Four firms have agreed to display large versions of the Northumbria Police's posters on their vehicles, as part of the Weekender campaign.

Recovery firm CF Motoring Services, highway maintenance company Colas, plus transport firms Fergusons and Van Hee are supporting the scheme. Five poster designs will be displayed on 62 vehicles in the North-East

Chief Inspector Neil Minto, of motor patrols, said: "We are extremely grateful to all four firms for their support.

"Through this initiative we can get our message across to motorcyclists not only at weekends, but when they are perhaps driving their car during the week."

The Weekender campaign hands out red and yellow cards to bikers seen driving dangerously.

Where a motorcyclist is seen making a minor mistake through a lack of skill or judgement, the emphasis is on advice and training and they are given a yellow card. The cards suggest ways to improve riding skills.

Last year, hundreds of yellow cards were handed out, while 12 people were given the red card and took part in the rider improvement course as an alternative to a court appearance.

The motorcycling course costs £155 and lasts two days, but successfully completing it means no prosecution, no fine and no penalty points.

The classes are open to all motorbike riders. Anyone wishing to attend is asked to contact 0191-221 8770.