Rolls-Royce Motor Cars hosted the launch of BikeSafe Sussex 2007 at the company’s Goodwood manufacturing plant yesterday. Thirty employee motorcyclists were assessed by specially trained Sussex Police riders and advised on how to make their riding safer and more enjoyable.

BikeSafe is an initiative run by police forces around the country which aims to reduce motorcycling casualties. This was the first time that BikeSafe Sussex has run a dedicated session for a local company. Other courses will be taking place during the summer months across Sussex that are open to all motorcyclists.

The full day’s training included a morning classroom session and a three hour on-the-road assessment, with every two motorcyclist or scooter riders assigned one police rider. During lunch the employees had time to chat with representatives from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA), the Highways Agency and Sussex Safer Roads Partnership. BMW Motorrad displayed a selection of new BMW motorcycles at the event.

Ian Robertson, Chairman and CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, and himself a keen motorcyclist said, “We are delighted to support BikeSafe Sussex in this initiative and encourage other local employers to take part. We take every opportunity to promote safe road use to our employees, working closely with the local authorities and emergency services. ”

Superintendent Paul Morrison, Sussex Police Road Policing Unit, said, “Last year, 22 motorcyclists lost their lives on Sussex roads, and we are working closely with our partners to bring that down this year through a combination of enforcement and education. BikeSafe is an excellent opportunity for motorcyclists of all abilities to improve their skills and ultimately make them safer riders. We want everyone to enjoy riding on our roads this summer, but also make sure their trip doesn't end in tragedy.”