Bikers to gather in support of banned snappers

More than a hundred bikers are expected to gather at a popular motorcycling spot in a row over three photographers who were told to keep away for a year.

Bikers have been campaigning to have Community Protection Notice Warnings placed on the photographers, who take pictures on Fish Hill, Worcestershire, removed.

West Mercia Police had said their presence on road verges was leading to bikers racing and driving dangerously on the A44 near Broadway, near Evesham.

However, Kayleigh Wisbey, from Motorbikes Owners Gloucester, who has organised a demo by bikers in support of the photographers, said safe riding was down to the riders.

She said: "We love riding Fish Hill, not because the photographers are there, simply because Fish Hill is a lovely stretch of road.

"It's nothing to do with the photographers being there. If they are there, then that's a bonus, but they do not affect our riding.

"We are in control of our vehicles, the same way a car driver is in charge of their vehicle."

She added: "The only person responsible for their riding or driving is the person in control of that vehicle.

"There's no reason why photographers should be targeted. If police have an issue with the way someone is riding, then hold that person accountable."

Insp Dave Wise said the road had seen a "disproportionately high number of serious collisions" in recent years.

There had been a high number of complaints about speeding, antisocial riding and noise, often linked to motorcyclists, he added.

Police had stepped up enforcement and education, he said.

"One recent measure involves issuing warnings to individuals whose promotion of events or presence at Fish Hill may encourage unlawful or risky riding and associated anti-social behaviour or nuisance," he added.

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