Plea after spate of bike collisions in north east Scotland
Police have issued a safety plea after 12 collisions involving motorcyclists in a week in the north east of Scotland.
One biker was killed, six were seriously hurt and four escaped with less serious injuries.
Police said the majority happened in Aberdeenshire, and that they all involved rider or driver error.
Sgt Neil Morrison said better weather would lead to an increase in the number of motorcyclists taking to the road.
He warned: "It is imperative that those returning to the road following the winter months take time to reacquaint themselves with the handling capabilities of their machine, as well as being honest with themselves in respect of their own riding abilities."
Sgt Morrison added: "The importance other road users play in reducing casualties in this class cannot be over emphasised.
"Drivers need to be mindful of the increased number of motorcycles on the roads and take extra care, checking and re-checking for motorcyclists when emerging from junctions or carrying out any manoeuvres, particularly overtakes."
Craig Baxter, 24, from the Banff area, died following the accident on the A947 south of Fyvie last week.