Wickford Police have spearheaded proposals for a new campaign to make motorists aware of the dangers to other road users of diesel fuel spilt onto roads.

The idea was sparked by discussions with local motorcycle enthusiasts -- and it is an issue felt to be of growing importance with the sale of motorcycles increasing and the scooter coming back into fashion.

Pc Geoff Whiter said: "We are concerned with the amount of diesel fuel spilt on the highways causing particular danger to motorcyclists."

The campaign will aim to make private and commercial drivers aware of the danger of over-filling their diesel fuel tanks.

It is hoped that all police vehicles in the Basildon Division will display warning stickers and fuel dumps will have similar signs.

Pc Whiter said: "We are hoping to work with our partners in Basildon District Council in getting their fleet to be similarly marked and give advice to their drivers and vehicle users."

Pc Kevin Moore, of Wickford Police, recognises the significance of the campaign as his motorbike was sent sliding by a sheet of fuel leaked from a car without a fuel cap.

He said: "The fuel was coming out and as it dripped down the vacuum created by the car moving along, dragged it round the back and produced a film across the road and I just lost control.

''Fortunately I was travelling at under 30mph and was wearing full protection."

He added: "Spillages are a major problem for motorcyclists, especially on roundabouts and corners, which are obviously where a cyclist needs maximum tyre grip."

Garages and fuel suppliers in the area have also been contacted to see if they will display campaign material.

The campaign will begin in September and may go countywide.

It is an issue that police would like drivers to remain aware of as conditions are especially difficult in the summer.

A national Vehicle Inspectorate survey found that 10 per cent of motorcyclists view fuel spills as the most serious problem on roads. Accidents like these cause damages costing £2.5million every year.

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