THE number of motorcyclists injured on Suffolk's roads saw a 'significant increase' last year - and the blame has been put on rising fuel prices which forced people to leave their cars at home and switch to two wheels.

THE number of motorcyclists injured on Suffolk's roads saw a 'significant increase' last year - and the blame has been put on rising fuel prices which forced people to leave their cars at home and switch to two wheels.

Although only 31 people will killed in accidents in the county - a ten year low - there was a 26% increase in serious injuries from 265 to 333.

Guy McGregor, county council portfolio holder for roads and transport and chairman of the Suffolk Roadsafe Partnership Board said there appeared to be 'a significant increase in motorcycle casualties.'

Mr McGregor added: 'This may be due to the surge in fuel prices late last year. It is reported that novice riders have been buying small cheap motorcycles in large numbers and using them for commuting trips.

'We will need to continue our motorcycle safety campaigns, training and enforcement. We have also worked together with regional Road Safety teams to prepare a bid for a substantial government grant to work with rural motorcyclists.'

Since 2003, when 60 motorists were killed in the county, there has been a concerted effort to encourage drivers to reduce their speed, with more fixed point and mobile cameras in operation as part of a 'save a life' campaign.

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