Campaign launched to promote Cyclists Safety

Almost 200 cyclists have been seriously injured across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight in the last year.

Police have launched a campaign to promote cyclists safety after the level of injuries reported on UK roads increased.

From 1st October new signs will be put up on the most high-risk Hampshire roads to make motorists more aware of cyclists.

Officers will be promoting safe cycling by handing out leaflets with advice and information for all road users. This includes discount vouchers for protective clothing such as helmets, lights and visibility vests.

Cyclists will be informed about basic road safety, the Highway Code and traffic awareness. Sergeant Darren Ord, who is co-ordinating the campaign, said, “our message to cyclists is very simple – be safe and be seen”.

The ‘Steer Clear’ campaign is a bid to educate road users on laws to reduce the number of road casualties and “foster a culture of mutual respect”.

Local councils are supporting the campaign; alongside its national governing body British Cycling and a number of local businesses such as Halfords, Hargroves and Wiggle.

The signs will change over the course of the next year.