Drivers across Merseyside are being reminded to "Look out for Bikes" as thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts pass through on their way to Isle of Man TT races.

Highways England will be using its network of electronic message signs up and down the region’s motorway network to urge drivers to be extra vigilant and help cut accidents and injuries involving bikers travelling to and back home from the races – most of them getting ferries to the Isle of Man from Liverpool.

This year’s festival of events began on Saturday and will continue until Friday, June 12 - with race week itself starting this Saturday, June 6.

Some 14,000 bikers are already booked on ferry crossings from the Northwest to the Isle of Man.

Stuart Lovatt, Highways England’s head of road safety, said: “A significant number of TT enthusiasts will be travelling through the area as motorcycle riders and pillion passengers.

“Many will not know our roads and our message to drivers is please consider how vulnerable people are on motorcycles and take a moment to look twice at every turn, every lane change and every junction.

"We would ask motorcycle riders to be considerate in return, plan your route and blend with the local traffic to keep everyone moving safely.”