'Big Idea' for road safety

A pilot project gave Warrington its own 'community TV channel' for the whole of last week - and with it the opportunity to raise awareness of road safety issues.

The 'Big Idea', which is accessed via the internet, mirrors a conventional TV channel with programmes ranging from drama and documentaries to soap operas and news bulletins - with features, presenters, actors, film makers and producers from the local community.

The pilot project was based in one of Warrington's disadvantaged areas, where safety, including road safety, is a significant issue.

The Big Idea's soap opera included a road traffic collision as the main story line, and infomercials were broadcast throughout the day showing a variety of road safety messages for different target groups. A green cross code advert was also broadcast, as was a drink drive commercial focussing on 'the morning after'.

The Big Idea went on air on Monday 23 October, and on Saturday 28 the road safety unit hosted an event in Warrington town centre in partnership with Cheshire Fire & Rescue and Cheshire Constabulary. The event reinforced the Big Idea and also supported the 'Be Safe Be Seen' campaign.

Archive files of the Big Idea are available to view at: www.the-bigidea.tv

For more information contact Beverley Mercer, RSO, on 01925 442689, or bmercer@warrington.gov.uk