BIKERS are being offered free training to help fellow riders in a life-threatening emergency.

95 Alive, North Yorkshire’s road safety campaign, is hosting a number of Biker Down courses to give people vital tips about how to help should they ever come across a motorbike crash.

The group, which is represented by police, fire service, ambulance and local authorities, trains people so they know what to do if they are the first on the scene of an accident.

A spokesman for the course said: “Would you know who is most at risk, how to protect the area or whether you should remove the helmet of a downed rider?

“Actions taken in the first few moments after an accident can be crucial in minimising injuries and can make a real difference to the lives of those involved. But there can be some uncertainty about what to do in these situations.”

The reality of the dangers facing bikers was brought home to fans of York panto star Martin Barrass, when he was left fighting for his life after a crash in September.

Mr Barrass, a stalwart of York Theatre Royal’s pantomime, broke 17 ribs, suffered a “mashed” liver and fractured his ankle when he crashed as he was riding home from the Lake District.

He was flown by Yorkshire Air Ambulance to Leeds General Infirmary and was treated in intensive care, but expects to return to the stage for this year’s panto run.

The three-hour course covers how to protect a casualty and other road users who may have stopped to assist, and looks at basic lifesaving skills such as CPR, airway management and when and how to remove a biker’s helmet.

Courses take place at Skipton Fire Station and Whitby Fire Station on Saturday, March 4.

This will be followed by a course at Tadcaster Fire Station on Sunday, March 12 and Malton Fire Station on Sunday, March 26.

To book a place, e-mail 95alive@northyorks.gov.uk with date and venue of choice.