ONE of the country's most influential motorcycle groups has put its weight behind the Evening Press's Arrive Alive campaign.

The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCI) has backed our drive to raise awareness into the number of motorcycle tragedies occurring on North Yorkshire's roads.

Over the past month, eight riders have lost their lives in accidents, with countless more injured.

The MCI is a trade association which represents the interests of the motorcycle industry.

It has more than 130 members including manufacturers, importers, insurance companies and riders' groups.

It also lobbies Government for change and runs a research department which produces new registration figures.

Today, MCI chief executive Mark Foster welcomed the chance to be associated with Arrive Alive.

He said car drivers and riders needed to be aware of each other and urged people to take more care on the roads. Mr Foster said: "We are happy to support Arrive Alive and hope the campaign makes a real difference.

"Riding a motorcycle does not have to be a risky way of travelling around and we urge people to take more care on the road.

"We want visiting motorcyclists in North Yorkshire to feel welcome and urge people to travel at sensible speeds to avoid potential accidents.

"Riders should also look into the possibility of training if they are novice bikers or returning to riding after a long break."

Mr Foster added that these measures should not take anything away from the joy of riding a bike.

"We want people to enjoy riding their motorcycles, mopeds and scooters," he said.

"They are excellent congestion-beaters and a fun way of getting around. Riding comes with the responsibility of being road and driver-aware and safety, not speed, should be at the forefront of every rider's mind."

Updated: 14:12 Thursday, May 09, 2002