Motorcyclists from south Wales and the Midlands flock to Powys

Fatal accidents fell by more than 50% from 12 in 2003 to five in 2004, with the same amount of traffic estimated over the same period.

A joint campaign included extra road signs and a map showing where crashes had taken place.

Serious injury accidents also fell from 87 to 49 last year, said officials.

There used to be a perception amongst some motorcyclists that our roads could be treated almost like a race track. Inspector Geraint Rees

A record 17 riders were killed in the Dyfed-Powys force area in 2003, 12 of those were in Powys. Last year's reduction coincided with the campaign, said police and the council.

Bikers from the Midlands and south Wales flock to ride Powys' quiet, rural roads during the summer at weekends.

Inspector Geraint Rees of Dyfed-Powys Police said: "There used to be a perception amongst some motorcyclists that our roads could be treated almost like a race track.

"We have been a lot more proactive over the past couple of years to dispel this myth and we will continue this work.

Many bikers are tempted by the open roads of rural Wales

"We are not discouraging motorcyclists from coming to Powys, in fact, the opposite, but we do want motorcyclists to ride responsibly, sensibly and safely."

The campaign included roadside posters showing the numbers of deaths and a leaflet, which included a map of accident blackspots.

Meg Lewis, senior road safety officer for Powys County Council said five people still lost their lives last year.

"Whilst this number is still a terrible tragedy it is good to know that the numbers were far less than the 12 who died in 2003," she said.

Motorcycle casualties were also down last year from 87 in 2003 to 49 in 2004.

Cllr Geraint Hopkins, portfolio holder for road safety, said there was also less disturbance to resdidents from speeding motorbikes. He said: "The vast majority of motorcyclists are well behaved, obey speed limits and do not take risks when overtaking and are welcome in Powys."