No motorcyclists have been killed on local roads since the launch of a safer riding campaign by West Mercia police.

The figures for May are in sharp contrast to the same period last year, when 13 riders were injured and two died in the force area.

The number of critical injuries suffered by bikers has also fallen dramatically since the summer-long campaign was launched by former grand prix commentator Murray Walker on April 30.

The campaign promotes safer motorcycling and rider training, specifically targeting dangerous riders.

A police spokesman said that while it was difficult to identify the reason for the reduction, it did appear that the message was getting through to bikers.