POLICE are launching a campaign aimed at curbing mature bikers who speed through the Durham Dales.

Over the past three years, seven riders have died in more than 50 motorbike accidents on the minor roads of Weardale and Teesdale. A further 20 have been seriously hurt and 36 received minor injuries.

Nine out of ten of the victims were "mature" riders; 82pc were aged between 30 and 59, with a further 8pc above the age of 60. An overwhelming number of crashes involved high-powered machines where speed was a factor.

Most accidents occurred at weekends between April and September, with Sunday - at about 11am or 6pm - the day of greatest risk.

From Easter Sunday and on through the coming spring and summer months, extra motorcycle patrols will tour the dales, stopping riders and pointing out the dangers they face and the risks they pose to other road users.

Chief Insp Paul Goundrey said: "We want to persuade them to show respect for the people in the communities they are travelling through, respect for others on the roads and, ultimately, respect for their own lives.

"A range of risk can confront riders, among them slow-moving tractors, livestock, mud on the road and other drivers enjoying a ride in the countryside.

"These roads are unforgiving, often lined by dry stone walls, mature trees and other immovable objects. You don't often get a second chance."

Sgt Bob Brown, who heads the force's motorcycle section, said the dales were a natural crossroads for riders all over the north of England.

"By stopping them and talking to them we hope we can discourage them from hammering through the villages.

"Our patrols are all about education rather than prosecution. We want bikers to ride within their limits, not disturb the peace of rural communities and to spare a thought for those they overtake, who might be startled by their speed and noise.

Posters highlighting the death toll and urging enthusiasts to show restraint are going up in premises throughout the dales.

Officers also plan to offer riders information about improving their skills through Durham's Advanced Motorcyclists and opportunities for racing with the North-East Motorcycle Club