Police increase patrols in Aberdeenshire for the first weekend of travel restrictions being eased

Officers from the Road Policing Unit in the north-east will be carrying out motorcycle patrols this weekend following the easing of some restrictions around travel and restrictions.

Sergeant Craig McNeill said: “We are going to see increased traffic on our roads and if you are visiting beauty spots then I would urge you to please do so safely and respectfully - leaving no trace of your visit.

"Please also park responsibly to allow emergency access.

“I would also remind people that under the new restrictions, gatherings are limited to six people from six households meeting outdoors only.

"Our approach throughout the pandemic has been to engage with the public, explain the legislation and encourage compliance, but we will not hesitate to use our enforcement powers as a last resort.

"We are also aware it is the first time that many motorcyclists will have taken to the road this year.

"Road safety is everyone's responsibility and I would ask all motorcyclists to ensure they have suitable safety equipment and urge all riders to not only travel within the posted speed limits but also at the appropriate speed for the road conditions and their capabilities.

"These patrols will allow officers to engage not only with motorcyclists but other road users, giving us the opportunity to provide advice and education and to share our experience on how we can all make our roads safer."

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