A GROUP of airmen kept themselves firmly on the ground as they strove to improve their motorcycling skills.

Personnel from RAF Leeming took part in a special “Bikesafe” course run b y North Yorkshire police.

The group were involved in a classroom-based workshop followed by an observed ride out with experts from the North Yorkshire force.

The base’s road safety officer, Flying Officer Matthew Read, said: “There are around 200 personnel at Leeming who are bike riders and it is part of an MOD-wide directive to get as many on to BikeSafe to essentially help protect our servicemen as best we can.”

Station commander Group Captain David Bradshaw, added: “The Royal Air Force attracts physically and mentally adventurous people so it is no surprise that such a large number of our airmen and women ride bikes.

“With the welcome assistance of the North Yorkshire Police, regular BikeSafe courses will help develop the skills and awareness of my service personnel so that they can enjoy the roads more safely.”