The number of biker deaths on the roads has fallen by a half

The "dramatic" fall has been put down to an increase in patrols on known accident hotspots and the launch of a region-wide safety campaign.

Between 1 January and 20 August, nine motorcyclists have died in crashes. Last year 18 died in the same period.

The 33 motorbike crash deaths accounted for a third of road fatalities in 2003.

Nine people have still died in motorcycle collisions this year and that is nine too many Pc Mick Gear

Since then, more patrols have been out at weekends along the A339, A272 and the A32.

The force has also been promoting its Bikesafe campaign and has joined up with police forces across the South East as part of Operation Triumph.

Bikesafe co-ordinator Pc Mick Gear said: "There has been a remarkable drop in the number of motorcyclists that have been killed on roads across the two counties so far this year and we are pleased that our efforts appear to be working.

"What we mustn't do now is become complacent.