A gift of a dozen motorbikes will boost the Government’s Project Ride programme, which helps teenagers become more proficient on the roads.

Bermuda Motors handed over the new bikes that will replace an older fleet.

Project Ride is a mandatory 12-hour programme, introducing teens to the rules of the road and includes road safety education and practical demonstrations in controlling the vehicle.

Bermuda Road Safety Council chairwoman Erica Rance Mill said she “deeply appreciated the gift from the vehicle dealer, and expressed thanks to Ms Roxanne Christopher for facilitating the donation”.

“A mechanic at Bermuda Motors has also offered to service the bikes, going forward,” Ms Rance Mill said. “This generosity shows me that Bermuda Motors is committed in its support of the island’s youth and to the Project Ride programme. These bikes will become valuable resources as we prepare new riders for the privilege of operating motor bikes on Bermuda roads.”

Road Safety officer David Minors added: “The programme caters to 550 to 600 young people a year. They are usually 15 years and six months old, or nearing 16 to participate in the programme, which includes both a written and practical examination before qualifying for their licence at 16.

“To obtain a Bermuda youth licence, applicants must complete the Project Ride programme. These bikes are used in the practical exam, and during training, providing the new riders with basic instruction on how to operate the vehicles safely.”

Ms Christopher, a former Road Safety officer, said she approached Bermuda Motors because of their consistent support for Project Ride in the past.

She said: “There was concern about budgetary constraints for this programme, and I wanted to help with a solution that would enable Bermuda’s young people to complete the programme.

“I reached out to Michael Butler, general manager of Bermuda Motors, and within 24 hours he got back to me and they have supplied 12 new bikes for training purposes.

“That just reveals the company as a great corporate citizen. They didn’t hesitate to help and has long been a great supporter of the Project Ride programme.”