Oxfordshire-based youth motor project Trax has set up its first scheme specifically aimed at young women with an interest in the world of motorbikes.

The 5,000 project started last week and runs until late August, when the group of nine young women aged 14 to 19 will take part in a race. It is supported by the Local Network Fund and Harley Davidson Europe.

The young women will learn about health and safety, motorcycle maintenance, and developing their riding skills.

Tamsin Jones, project development worker at Trax, said she decided to run a female-only group to make more young women sign up. "The project is all about safety," she said. "There is a high percentage of accidents among young people."