THE total number of motorcyclists killed or injured in Gwent last year has fallen compared to 2013, according to police figures.

In 2014, 79 motorcyclists were killed or injured in Gwent, which is a 37 per cent reduction on 2013’s figures of 115.

There were 23 incidents in Newport, 21 in Monmouthshire, 17 in Caerphilly, 14 in Torfaen and four in Blaenau Gwent, which make up 11 per cent of the national total of 749 incidents.

In 2014, there were 28 motorcyclist fatalities on Welsh roads, the highest in seven years, and four of these were in Gwent: two in Monmouth, one in Torfaen and one in Newport.

Motorcyclists represent just 0.2 per cent of traffic in Wales but motorcycle riders comprised 40 per cent of fatal and serious casualties of all motor vehicle drivers.

Kevin Morgan, 60, from Cwmbran, died at the scene of the collision with a black convertible BMW Z4 on the A449 outside Newport, just off the Coldra roundabout, on June 21 last year.

He had been riding his white Kawasaki motorbike at the time.

Mr Morgan’s brother, Mike Morgan, 54, said: “I’m not surprised by the national figures.

“I don’t think enough is being done for bike awareness.

“Drivers see motorcyclists as non-road users. It will get worse if something is not done about it.

“Every time you go on a bike, you take your life into your own hands.”

By 2020, the Welsh Government is targeting a 40 per cent reduction in the total number of people KSI; a 40 per cent reduction in the number of young people KSI; and a 25 per cent reduction in the number of motorcyclist KSIs.

As part of these plans, the Welsh Government awarded almost £4 million to fund more than 30 road safety improvement schemes in 14 local authority areas across the country. More than £180,000 has been prioritised to help motorcyclists improve their skills, too.

A Welsh Government spokeswoman said: “We are committed to improving road safety and reducing road casualties through a combination of measures including education, engineering and enforcement.

“Our Road Safety Framework identifies measures to protect the most high risk and vulnerable road users, however, everyone has a part to play and needs to take some responsibility.”

Susan Storch, chair of Road Safety Wales, added: “Wales welcomes motorcyclists who are naturally drawn to the stunning scenery, winding roads, and motorcycle friendly businesses.

“However, partners are concerned about the number who do not make it safely home, whether they are on a day out or riding to and from work.”