MOTORCYCLISTS are being given a chance to improve their skills under the watchful eye of experts.

North Yorkshire Police’s BikeSafe team and Northallerton Advanced Bikes are hosting a rider development day on Saturday, April 11, from 10am to 5pm.

The event, which is free and open to all bikers, will take place at Teasdale Motorcycles on Long Street in Thirsk.

Free, assessed rides will be on offer between 10am and 4pm by advanced motorcyclists who can advise riders on how to improve their skill level.

There will also be 24 demonstration bikes available to test ride including KTMs, MV Agusta, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi.

Traffic Sergeant Sean Grey said: “We have held similar events in the past and they have proved to be a great way to engage with other motorcyclists to share our knowledge and skills.

“We want motorcyclists to enjoy riding in North Yorkshire, it’s beautiful and has some great riding routes.

“However, the nature of our roads and the very reason why bikers want to come here, presents challenges and hazards ranging from narrow, twisting roads to large, slow moving vehicles and tourist traffic.

“It’s vital that riders who want to enjoy our fantastic area have the right skills to cope with it.”