Bikers under fire after Inveraray jaunt
Eyebrows were raised in Inveraray on Monday May 25 as good weather brought out Bank Holiday bikers in numbers.
One Royal Burgh resident contacted the Advertiser to complain the town was ‘overrun’ with motorcyclists and that they were behaving with ‘total disregard’ to social distancing.
Social media was filled with criticism of the bikers’ actions, with many people pointing out the potential risks of coronavirus transmission.
Government rules introduced to slow the spread of the virus limit travel to essential purposes only.
Inveraray Community Council convener Linda Divers said: ‘I’m not sure what the bikers are thinking about. Going on a bike ride from who knows where isn’t currently part of the guidelines.’
She added: ‘We see it all the time in Inveraray.’
The Advertiser approached the Scottish Motorcycle Club (SMC) earier this week for comment and the group responded: ‘The Scottish Motorcycle Club stands by the restrictions imposed by the Scottish Government. All club activities – ride outs, socials and any other SMC businesses – were suspended from around mid-March and still are.’
The latest advice from the British Motorcyclists Federation urges all riders to only make essential journeys and to avoid groups and social meeting places. It goes on: ‘Social distancing remains essential.
‘Do not put yourself into situations where social distancing cannot be achieved. If in doubt, don’t risk it.’
Campbeltown-based roads policing Inspector Archie McGuire said police are seeing an increase in motorcycle activity across the area as the weather improves.
Inspector McGuire added: ‘If it appears to officers that anyone, including motorcyclists or other road users, may be in breach of current Scottish Government advice or requirements in respect of coronavirus legislation, they will engage with them explaining why this is necessary and ecourage them to co-operate. Where appropriate, and as a last resort, officers will enforce the law.
‘Over the last holiday weekend, several motorcyclists and other motorists in the area were spoken to by officers and warned about breaching current regulations. I remind people who may be planning to travel to this area to consider their actions and the effect this may have on the community during this challenging period.’