Footballers used as road safety role models

Preston North End's 2-1 win over Watford on 7 August - the first time in four years that the home side has won its opening game of the season - has been hailed a victory for road safety.

The partnership between the football club and Lancashire County Council is part of a larger initiative through which the DfT's THINK! campaign is promoted across the UK via the Coca-Cola Football League Championship.

Players from both Burnley FC and Preston have also made appearances at theatre productions in schools and colleges highlighting the effects of speeding and aggressive driving, played out to a young audience. The players signed autographs and spent time chatting to students about being careful on the roads.

"By involving role models such as popular football players, the campaign messages can be represented by local heroes," said councillor Jean Yates, cabinet member for highways and transportation. "Football's huge popularity reaches all members of society - from the very young to older people, and armchair enthusiasts."

For further information contact Martin Crabtree on 01772 533536, martin.crabtree@css.lancscc.gov.uk