The South Glos Post

A family of motorcycle enthusiasts have benefited from a free day of motorcycle training provided by South Gloucestershire Council.

The course is one of a number of initiatives organised by road safety officers to reduce road casualties amongst motorcyclists by helping to improve rider skills.

Martin Heale and his two sons Daryl and Chris spent a morning in Yate brushing up on their riding theory before going out on the roads with Malcolm Dykes, a retired police advanced motorcycle instructor.

The training day covered advice on good riding techniques and an introduction to advanced riding skills, and the Heales said they enjoyed the day and learned lots of useful information.

Instructor Malcolm Dykes said: “These courses not only improve your safety and awareness on the road but also your enjoyment and efficiency.”

Clllr Brian Allinson, executive member for planning, transportation and the strategic environment, added: “Road safety education and training is a key pillar of the council’s comprehensive and pro-active approach to improving road safety and bring down the number of road casualties.

“I would encourage anybody who rides a motorbike to take up the offer of free training. Even if you have been riding for many years; riders can benefit from improving existing skills to increased awareness of hazards on the road and how to deal with other road users.”

All of the instructors who run the training are keen, experienced bikers who enjoy getting out on the road and will provide advice and guidance on modifying your technique to achieve smoother, safer and trouble free riding.

The courses are open to riders of all types of bikes. To find out more, or to book a free place, motorcyclists should contact 01454 863749 or email motorcycling@southglos.gov.uk

The next courses take place on September 20 and October 3.

Source: South Gloucestershire Council

Police are appealing for witnesses after a road traffic collision involving a car and a pedestrian in Filton

The incident occurred on Monday 27th July 2009 at around 6.35pm on Church Road, Filton.

A blue Vauxhall Corsa was in collision with a male pedestrian. The pedestrian suffered minor injuries.

A 20-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent and has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information is asked to contact police in Staple Hill on 0845 456 7000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They never ask your name or trace your call.

Source: Avon and Somerset Police

Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was assaulted in Chipping Sodbury.

The incident took place on Sunday 26th July 2009 at around 1.40am at Chipping Sodbury Rugby Club in Wickwar Road.

The victim was punched in the face several times.

A 40-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of assault and has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police in Staple Hill on 0845 456 7000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They never ask your name or trace your call.

Source: Avon and Somerset Police

Forget FC Barcelona – a primary school in South Gloucestershire has just won its own football treble.

Mangotsfield primary school is understood to be the first school ever in the district to win the South Gloucestershire Large Schools Cup, the South Gloucestershire Area League and the South Gloucestershire Tournament in the same year.

The primary school football team has been unbeaten in normal time for over two years and is hoping to carry on its winning ways into next season.

The school has also achieved success in other sports. This year it won a local hockey tournament hosted at Mangotsfield secondary school, came runners-up in a rugby competition hosted at Cleve Rugby Club, won a year six boys cross country event held at The Grange school and sports college and year five won the summer Festival of Youth Sport athletics event.

Headteacher Marion Borland said: “This past year has been a phenomenal one for the school and makes the whole school community proud to be associated with so many winning teams.”

Councillor Sheila Cook, executive member for children and young people, said: “I would like to congratulate Mangotsfield primary school on their sporting success.”

Source: South Gloucestershire Council