MEP LIZ LYNNE TAKES TO TWO WHEELS

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sun 8th Jul 2001

County Liberal Democrat MEP Liz Lynne took to two wheels and black leathers when she joined the annual MEP motorcycle ride at the European Parliament, Strasbourg.

The event was organised by representatives of riders' organisations and historic vehicle federations from across Europe.

Liz Lynne, Euro MP for the West Midlands region, has been a keen motorcyclist since attending last years MEP motorcycle ride.

"With our cities increasingly congested and public transport lacking the necessary investment the motorcycle is becoming increasingly attractive.

"I have been having lessons and shall be taking my British test very soon. In France anybody who has a driving licence can ride a motorcycle below 125cc so I was allowed to participate in the motorcycle ride on a bike arranged for me by the organisers.

"More people should be aware of the advantages of motorcycles and not put off by media images of Hells Angels. Motorbikes take up little road space, use very little fuel and allow you the freedom to go anywhere.

"In cities they are increasingly popular for getting to work, sending courier messages, and taking a motorcycle taxi is increasingly common for people in a hurry and who can't afford to sit and wait in traffic."

The ride south of Strasbourg to Nordhouse took place on the evening of 4 July, and was followed by a Harley Davidson sponsored barbecue in Plobsheim.