Even more youngsters to get the 'Right Start'

Young children in Lancashire are to benefit from an extra £30,000 targeted at helping them be safer on the roads.

The cash will be spent on extending Lancashire County Council's Right Start pedestrian training programme. So far over 19,000 primary-age children have learnt how to be safer when out and about and now 97 more schools in Lancaster, Hyndburn, Burnley, Pendle and Skelmersdale are to be invited to take part.

As part of the package six new senior training co-ordinators have been drafted in to help train the volunteers who will deliver the programme (see pic).

"Right Start is based on research that shows that children learn best through practical experience in situations where there is traffic," road safety adviser Anita Bailey explained. "Schools that have taken on the programme have found it to be a positive step to encouraging traffic awareness and the pedestrian skills that are essential as children grow older. By focusing on areas of disadvantage we can ensure children have the skills to manage the ever-changing road environment."

In 2003, there were no fatalities, 12 serious and 39 slight injuries in the 5-7 year old age group across Lancashire.

For more information about the Right Start programme contact Anita Bailey on 01772 534514 or log on at www.lancashireroadsafety.co.uk.