MOTORISTS are being urged to slow down and save lives after police dealt with a motorcyclist doing 55mph through Horton-in-Ribblesdale at the weekend.

A second biker was also recorded travelling at 106mph on the A65 near Settle, in an area with a 60mph limit, and a car driver at 95mph.

Police say they have seen motorists reaching speeds of up to 59mph in 30 mph communities and are working to tackle the ‘horrendous’ behaviour as around a third of primary schools reopened.

In addition to the speeding motorcyclist, police also recorded 80 motoring offences in and around Horton on Sunday.

Motorists were both local residents and visitors from outside the area, and police have warned someone will be killed if bad driving continues and roads get busier.

Superintendent Paula Booth says police will continue their intensified response to “horrendous” driving and motorcycling until the issue is tackled, with an emphasis on reducing speeds in communities and on key routes.

“Despite warning motorists we are actively targeting speeding and other dangerous road use in communities across North Yorkshire, we saw some very alarming incidents this weekend.

“As schools begin to go back, with more young pedestrians and cyclists using the roads, I reiterate that we will not tolerate road use that puts lives in danger.”

She added: “Like us, residents have noticed some very irresponsible driving and motorcycling in their communities. They tell us they’re worried that someone will be killed if it continues, and I wholeheartedly share their concerns.

“If you’re using North Yorkshire’s roads today, please remember we are out in force tackling dangerous road use, so please do the right thing, slow down and save lives.”

As well as villages, towns and suburbs, police are also trying to reduce speeds on key routes, as they become busier due to some lockdown restrictions being eased.