A NEW voluntary registration scheme which seeks to make conditions safer for delivery cyclists has been set up in the capital.
Edinburgh Riders Association is a membership group for food delivery riders within the City of Edinburgh, aiming to enhance rider safety.
The collective wants to introduce a registry of riders, and a voluntary ID plate scheme for delivery cyclists.
Organiser Derek Johnstone Fraser organised the group, he said: “I am pleased to announce the formation of the Edinburgh Riders Association.
“We are looking to introduce plates later this year. The Association’s main aim is rider safety, a home base and workshop for riders, and raising money for charity.
“If you’re a rider, and are interested in joining and helping our Association, please don’t hesitate to join our page and get involved.”
He described the introduction of a registry and ID plate scheme as a “UK first”, and one which is “modelled on the Taxi Associations.”
The group’s second aim is to get involved in charity work, as part of this, they will be offering an emergency delivery service for food banks and charities.
Johnstone Fraser said: “If you’re a volunteer with such a charity or foodbank and need a delivery of food to an individual or pet at risk, please contact me.
“Please ensure no more than two full bags per delivery. If you’re a rider wishing to participate and help out, please drop a message to me, thanks.”
The leader of the group advised that their first step will be electing a board and appointing a secretary.
Addressing the group on social media yesterday, Derek continued: “All members will vote on this at our first meeting, a provisional date will be posted soon.”
Derek went on to explain: “Each member will display a full plate number, these are examples:
EDC 0000, EDN 0000, LTH 0000.
“The first 3 letters denotes the riders home area, then the 4 number ID.
“Plates will be issued subject to right to work checks, id checks, and bike safety checks, and membership of the association carries a monthly fee of £8.
“Costs of the plates will be determined at a later date, but we are looking at a fee of around £50.”
Find out more and get involved in the group on Facebook here.
