POLICE have issued a "take extra care" this bank holiday weekend to motorcyclists who may be hitting the roads for the first time this year.

Officers will be out on the roads encouraging motorcyclists to stay safe this biking season through using a mixture of education and enforcement, where appropriate.

Chief Superintendent Andy Edmonston, Head of Road Policing at Police Scotland, said: “Many bikers will be preparing to get back out on the road this weekend to enjoy the wide range of rides and scenery Scotland has to offer.

“We understand the thrill of motorcycling and why people want to do it, but we also want them to keep themselves safe, especially when overtaking and negotiating left hand bends.

“Earlier this year we worked with Transport Scotland on this year's launch of the 'Live Fast, Die Old' campaign, which allows us to talk directly to bikers, encouraging them to enjoy the biking season while thinking about the safety aspects of their ride.

"Motorcyclists are more vulnerable than other road users and since the start of April, we have already seen two motorcyclists killed and others seriously injured. As the roads get busier in the coming months and in particular this holiday weekend, I would encourage motorcyclists to take extra care."