Performing Arts students from Nelson and Colne College

Performing Arts students from Nelson and Colne College

Kim Woodburn

Theatre in Education - Worst Hits

Theatre in Education - Worst Hits

Competition prizes

Competition prizes

17.12.09 - Cycle tips for night riders

                                  Cycle tips for night riders

CYCLISTS in Lancashire are being reminded to take extra care during winter.

Lancashire County Council's Road Safety Group Manager, Neil Cunliffe said: "While some cyclists lock away their bikes during the winter period, others have found that cycling remains worthwhile as long as they are prepared for their journey."

"It is important to remain alert on dark nights, and plan your route beforehand. Traffic free routes might feel safer during the day, but on a dark night they could be hazardous. If possible, choose routes that are well lit by street lights to help you stay safe."

The Road Safety Group has prepared some tips to help you while you are cycling late in the evening:

•           Remember that traffic is not the only hazard at night. Watch out for, puddles, potholes, litter, cyclists who do not have lights and pedestrians in dark clothing. 
•           It is against the law to cycle without a red light on the back of your cycle and a white light on the front. 
•            You also need to have a red reflector on the rear of your bike and amber pedal reflectors. Other reflective items, such as stickers and spoke reflectors, will also help you be seen. 
•            Look out for ice and be extra cautious on the roads.
•            Fluorescent clothes are good for visibility during the day, but at night you need to wear something reflective or attach reflective strips to your clothes.
•            The dark can make it unsafe to turn right on the road, so stay on the left hand side and wait for a gap in traffic.

The Road Safety Group has some fashionable reflective stickers to give away, courtesy of SuckUK. To be in with a chance of winning a pack, please answer the following question:

What should you have on the rear of your bike?

a)     A white light

b)     A red light and red reflector

c)     Handlebars

Send your answer on a postcard with your name, address and contact number to SuckUK Stickers Giveaway, Lancashire County Council, Road Safety Group, Guild House, Cross Street, Preston, FREEPOST PR 844, PR1 3BR. (Competition closes Monday 11^th January)

For more information about the Road Safety Group call 0800 328 1635, email roadsafety@lancashire.gov.uk or visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/roadsafety