WEYMOUTH biker Roy Hills is urging drivers in Dorset to make safety their number one priority this winter.

The Dorset representative of the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has called for all road users to look out for each other as dark nights draw in and driving conditions get worse.

He spoke out after the latest Dorset County Council figures showed that motorcyclists accounted for a quarter of all the county's fatal and serious road casualties last year.

Carer Mr Hills, 55, of Briar Close, said: "This is just statistics to some people, but it means death and destruction for motorcyclists.

"Bikers are more likely to get hurt than motorists, because the car acts like a shell or a box around you.

"One accident is tragic enough, it affects families and friends."

Mr Hills, who has been involved in two accidents while riding his Yamaha XJ 900, said: "People need to drive at sensible speeds and have respect for speed limits - all traffic should not be going at more than 30 mph through villages.

"Everybody gets frustrated when they are driving and people are taking more chances on the roads.

"Cars can't overtake as well as motorbikes when they are stuck behind a slow vehicle because they do not have the acceleration.

"And people are not allowing enough braking space now that winter is coming and the roads are getting damp - two friends of mine have been shunted from the rear and their bikes are a write-off."

Mr Hills said: "Diesel spillage is lethal. It needs to be cleared up as soon as possible because it can cause fatal accidents."

Mr Hill has also urged motorists to call the free 'Clarence' hotline when they see road defects that could pose a risk to others.

He said: "If you see problems on roads and pavements, street lighting or blocked drains, call 0800 23 23 23.

"It is definitely worth it because I reported a big pothole in Chafeys Avenue and the job was done the next day. I am just trying to make the roads a safer place."