It is easy to see why so many people take to the roads on motorcycles.

They are cheaper to run than cars, take up little road space and are unlikely to get stuck in traffic.

Yet motorcyclists run a higher risk of being killed or injured than almost any other group of road users.

Now Thames Valley Police have relaunched their campaign to try to reduce the number of casualties.

Judging by the figures, they are getting something right. The scheme was first promoted last year, when 21 bikers were killed and 229 seriously injured on the Thames Valley's roads, compared with 36 killed and 261 seriously injured in 2003.

This is a terrific achievement -- although there are still too many deaths.

The red card/yellow card system is a commendable one, offering an alternative to mere punishment for bad riding.

A court appearance might be desirable in some circumstances, but a constructive policy of educating riders promises better long-term results.

The truth is that many motorcyclists buy bikes and ride them around as if they were on a race circuit.

We have all seen riders taking unnecessary risks.

Any initiative which can reduce the number of casualties is to be welcomed.