Zenith – Motorcycle Campaign

Grampian Police are currently running Operation Zenith 2011, after the initiative helped slash the number of motorcyclists killed or seriously injured by 22% in its first year.

The scheme – the first of its kind in Scotland – returned on Sunday 3 April 2011.

The multi-agency initiative will see Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray Councils, the association of motorcycle dealers for the North East of Scotland, Bear (Scotland), the North East Camera Safety Partnership and Aberdeenshire Community Safety Partnership working in partnership.

PC Neil Robertson said: “The aim of Operation Zenith is to encourage motorcyclists to be aware of their own safety and to think about advanced training to improve their skills. Last year we increased patrols in key areas and those have been well received by the motorcyclists we have spoken to.”

Last year the three councils across Grampian assisted by sweeping the popular biking routes in early spring to rid them of grit left over from the winter months. Extra signage was also put in place on some routes to highlight possible dangers and this will continue this year.

PC Robertson added: “It is important to highlight to other road users, the vulnerability of motorcyclists and the importance of looking out for them, particularly at junctions.

“We are delighted to say that during 2010 we saw a 22% reduction in the number of fatal and serious motorcycle collisions in the Grampian area and we hope to build on this in the future.”

Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee Councillor Peter Argyle said: “I am delighted to lend Aberdeenshire Council’s support to the launch of the Operation Zenith campaign.

“Key to the success of last year’s campaign was the genuine partnership working and engagement of all partners – the emergency services, roads authorities, and the bikers themselves, amongst others.

“However, we cannot rest on our laurels. While we will continually strive to improve safety through a combination of the Five Es – Education, Engineering, Enforcement, Encouragement and Engagement – I would stress that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

“I urge all our road users to take heed of the safe biking messages being promoted here today through Operation Zenith.

“The north east boasts some of the most attractive locations and open roads for motorcyclists and through Operation Zenith we are keen to ensure motorcyclists continue to make the most of the area, but do so in a safe and responsible manner.”

For further information please view the Grampian Police Zenith webpage and/or visit the Around the Corner Website.