THE popular weekly bike night held on Poole Quay has won a prestigious international safety award.

Presented by Prince Michael of Kent at a glittering ceremony at The Savoy Hotel in London, the Prince Michael International Road Safety Award was given to Dorset Police, Poole Tourism and the volunteer marshals.

Coles Miller Dream Machines is the largest regular weekly motorcycle meet in the south, taking place every Tuesday evening from April to September.

Celebrating its official 10th birthday in 2011, up to 2,000 bikers regularly attend to socialise and compete for the bike of the night competition, culminating in the 26 winners hoping to be chosen as Bike of the Year winner.

In partnership with event organisers Poole Tourism, Dorset Police’s bike safe team attend to spread road safety messages.

“Having been involved with the event for the past seven years we have worked tirelessly in partnership with the event team and marshals to reduce the number of bike accidents linked to it,” said PC Chris Smith of Dorset Police traffic unit.

“We have had significant success in changing the attitudes of riders attending the event and I believe this has resulted in the number of bike accidents falling year on year.

“I hope we can build on this major award and make this an event known for its excellent safety record.”

Anne Simpson, Poole Tourism events manager said: “Bikers have really taken the event to their hearts, not only local riders, but those from across the south who come to be part of the event each week.

“A huge part of this is down to the volunteer marshals, enthusiastic local bikers who help to make the event so successful.”

Chief marshal Kerry Pope said: “Bikers working with the police have been really successful in getting across messages on driving carefully and not taking risks.

The information is all the more powerful, particularly as many bikers have been or know someone affected by an accident.”

The awards have been presented since 1987 and reward outstanding achievements and innovations to improve road safety.