Police issue Grand Prix safety warning

Lee Johnston (East Coast Construction Triumph) leads Glenn Irwin (Gearlink Kawasaki) and Ian Hutchinson (Team Traction Control Yamaha) at Quarry Bends during the second Supersport race at last year's Ulster Grand Prix.
PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON INUS Ulster Grand Prix — Lee Johnston (East Coast Construction Triumph) leads Glenn Irwin (Gearlink Kawasaki) and Ian Hutchinson (Team Traction Control Yamaha) at Quarry Bends during the second Supersport race at last year's Ulster Grand Prix. PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON INUS Ulster Grand Prix

Police say they want everyone who comes to the Grand Prix at Dundrod to enjoy themselves but road safety must come first.

Biker and PSNI District Commander for Lisburn and Castlereagh, Superintendent Sean Wright, said: “It is Bike Safety Week.

“As a motorcyclist myself, I am reminded daily that we are more vulnerable when out on the roads.

“The greater the speed the more violent the crash.

“Emulating your favourite professional racer on public roads will at the least get you into trouble with police.

“At most, you could be involved in a fatal collision.

“Three riders have died in motorcycle collisions in Northern Ireland this year and I make a heartfelt plea to all bikers; if you are coming to Dundrod, ride with safety in mind, stay within the speed limits and ride steady.

“Anyone seen riding in an erratic or dangerous fashion will be stopped by police. “

The rewas advice for drivers too. “In addition,” said Mr Wright, “we are reminding all drivers they need to be aware of greater numbers of motorcyclists using the road network, particularly when emerging from and turning into junctions.

“Police will continue to robustly enforce road safety during the event to keep people safe.”