Police chiefs have issued a plea to bikers to stay safe following a ‘significant increase’ in motorcyclists killed or seriously injured this year.

There have been 15 fatalities across both of the policing areas of North Wales and Dyfed Powys Police and a further 72 motorcyclists seriously injured as a result of collisions.

The Chief Constables of North Wales and Dyfed-Powys Police issued a joint statement in the lead up to the Bank Holiday.

Dyfed-Powys Police Chief Constable Simon Prince, and North Wales Police Chief Constable Mark Polin, who is a motorcyclist himself, said they were concerned by a high number of collisions involving motorbikes in both their areas.

They said: "Our approach on enforcement has not changed; we will robustly enforce the law so that we can assist in reducing the risk to all road users. Motorcyclists, and other motorists, taking their time to visit the beautiful countryside of Mid and North Wales are very welcome so long as they ride or drive safely and within the law. Those who choose to break the law can expect to be prosecuted. Roads Policing Officers are equipped with a number of detection tactics and they have both overt and covert patrol cars and bikes."

The Chief Constables added that they would also continue to work with riders through a variety of engagement events and use opportunities to educate riders.

They added: "We continue to be avid supporters of Bike Safe, an extremely valuable resource that is very well received, and we wish to encourage as many riders as possible to engage with a local Bike Safe workshop.

"Many police officers and staff are keen motorcyclists who understand the attraction of the beautiful, but notoriously challenging, routes in North Wales and Dyfed Powys. Fellow motorcyclists are welcome, all we ask is that they ride safely and with respect for other road users."