Dumfries and Galloway MSP, Emma Harper, has congratulated eleven year old Kieran Conchie on being named Compass Brain Injury Specialists Young Ambassador.
Kieran, an enthusiastic go-kart racer, has joined the local campaign to encourage people to wear a helmet when riding off road vehicles such as quad bikes, go karts and motorbikes.
The South Scotland MSP and Compass Brain Injury are leading the #HingYerHelmet campaign – aimed at reducing preventable head injuries by reminding farmers and other agricultural workers to always wear a helmet when riding quad bikes.
Commenting, Emma said:
“I am delighted that Compass have welcomed Kieran as their young ambassador. His commitment to achieving success alongside his knowledge of safety makes him a remarkable role model in Scotland’s Year of Young People.
“Every year there are an average of 2 fatalities and more than 1,000 farmers have accidents and sustain injuries involving quad bikes and other all-terrain vehicles.
“It is reported that more than 50% of all quad bike riders have been thrown from the vehicle at some point so workers require to be provided with helmets and trained to use them.
“However, it is so important to educate those not employed by companies such as farmers and young people about the dangers of not wearing a helmet when riding all-terrain vehicles.
“I congratulate and look forward to working with Kieran on the campaign started by myself and Compass to educate and encourage responsible helmet wearing, with the campaign slogan ‘#HingYerHelmet’.”
