Stunt rider Danny MacAskill in safety plea to fans

Stunt rider Danny MacAskill has urged fans not to copy his daredevil feats as he made a plea for cyclists to wear helmets.

The star rider said he had escaped death and severe injury on a number of occasions after crashes because he was wearing protective headgear.

He famously rode along the Cuillin Ridge on his home island of Skye for a video which has gained more than 66 million views on YouTube.

A number of mountain bikers have been injured in the area in recent years by trying to emulate the 33-year-old’s remarkable exploits.

He said: “Every time I have crashed and broken a helmet, it has definitely saved my life or saved me from severe injury.

“It’s cool to watch the videos and be inspired to go out riding your bike, but you have got to start off small and find you own level and work your way up.”