THE DAYS MAY BE LONGER NOW BUT POLICE ARE URGING THE PUBLIC TO NOT BE COMPLACENT ABOUT HOME SECURIT

The clocks went forward yesterday , bringing longer days and -hopefully - warm summer nights.

With that in mind, Police are urging the public to not be complacent about home security, and to not let opportunistic thieves take advantage of open windows and doors.

Constable Jim Watson from Police Scotland's Crime Reduction Unit said: ''We still recommend that you leave a light on at night if you go out for the evening. It quite simply gives the impression that someone is home and can deter a thief from targeting your property. But the most important and simple thing you can do to protect your home and property is to ensure that you keep all doors locked, even if you are at home.

"Let's not make it easy for the thief. Take a minute to think about the security of your house, your car and any valuables you have and help us keep the North East one of the safest places to live and work."

Roads policing officers are also urging motorcyclists to stay safe on the region's roads as the clocks go forward and 'biking season' begins.

Inspector Jon Barron of the Divisional Road Policing Unit is issuing a reminder to all motorists, but in particular motorcyclists, to be aware, stay safe and to not take risks.

Bikers are a particularly vulnerable group and, sadly, year upon year riders and pillion passengers feature regularly among the toll of those killed or seriously injured.

Police Scotland has launched Operation Zenith to tackle the issue, and officers across the North East division will be promoting motorcycle safety awareness and enforcing legislation in respect of motoring offences.

Inspector Barron said: "My plea to bikers is to ride responsibly and concentrate fully. You must be aware of your surroundings and not take risks. I don’t want to spoil anyone's enjoyment of their hobby, but I have to urge caution.

"Police Scotland, along with road safety partners, are aiming to reduce the number of road deaths and make Scotland’s roads safer so I must ask - don’t risk it, reduce your speed and obey the rules of the road.

"Casualty figures show that whilst motorbikes only represent 1% of all road traffic they account for 13% of fatalities. More than 85% of all motorcycle casualties happen in rural areas, in good weather, during the day and in the 'biking season' which generally runs from April to September.

"Please let this year be different. By all means, go for a ride on your vehicles and enjoy our roads and wonderful countryside but please do so carefully so that you, and everyone else, can get home safely."

Inspector Barron added: "Other motorists must also please play their part and look out for bikers. These collisions are not always the fault of the riders. Collisions regularly occur due to other

motorists failing to see or failing to react to the presence of the motorcycle. It is vitally important, particularly at junctions and when overtaking, that you all 'think bike'.

"I'd also like to remind motorcyclists that, when not in use, they should ensure that they take all possible steps to properly secure their vehicles; whether on-street, off-road or in a garage or shed. Bikes can be extremely attractive to those in our communities who will willingly help themselves to others' property."