IT'S safety first for a group of Dorset bikers as they prepare for a special charity ride.

Two-wheeled travellers in Weymouth are set to ride more than 100 miles around the county to mark the launch of the RoadWise safety village and raise money for SafeWise - the charity behind it.

The ride on May 1 is being organised by Weymouth couple Lisa Hindle and Darren Brown, who have said that they want to raise awareness of the "huge importance" of motorcycle safety.

The RoadWise centre, situated at Weymouth Community Fire Station, was formally opened by Princess Anne in March.

Riders will leave the station on the day and travel around Dorset via Blandford, Sherborne and Bridport, before reaching the end point at the Clifton Hotel on Portland.

Lisa said: "Being on two wheels can make riders more vulnerable to the dangers of careless driving.

"Safety is obviously of huge importance given that there are so many aspects to consider whilst riding, such as other road users, weather conditions, and even the experience of the riders we are with at the time.

"SafeWise is one of the mayoral charities and the opening of the newly created RoadWise centre ties in with promoting road safety education from a pedestrian, cyclist and road user perspective.

"We are aiming to ride along some of Dorset's more iconic riding roads, such as Zig Zag Hill, to give riders not only a picturesque route but an interesting ride as well."

The event is being organised with the support of the Dorchester and West Dorset Advanced Motorcyclists group (DWDAM), which promotes safety among local riders.

Lisa added: "I have been an associate of DWDAM for a while and can wholly vouch for how beneficial it is to how we ride and perceive hazards on the road.

"DWDAM often runs talks and events for those who want to improve or refresh their skills, so it's really great that we have the opportunity to have them join us for this ride."

Cllr Christine James, Mayor of Weymouth and Portland, said: "I think it's great that they are doing it for RoadWise.

"I have supported the road safety centre ever since I heard about it and, when I became mayor, I wanted to make it one of my charities."

The RoadWise riders will meet at Weymouth Community Fire Station at 10am on Sunday, May 1.

To get involved, visit facebook.com/groups/WeymouthBikers.