THE long winter nights do not mean Herefordshire cyclists have to put their bikes into hibernation.

Cycling, even in months of limited daylight, can still be carried out safely – that’s the message from Herefordshire Council.

The council has been encouraging cyclists in Leominster to make sure they are safe and can be seen on the county’s roads.

Members of its integrated transport team visited the town and called into its junior school and Minster College to encourage young cyclists to take steps to ensure their safety.

They also held a roadshow in Corn Square and then visited a number of businesses in the town.

Cyclists were offered free high-visibility vests, puncture repair kits, fluorescent bands and cycle lights.

This was part of the council’s initiative to encourage residents to continue using their bikes throughout the winter because it is a great way to stay active at a time of year when other leisure activities may be limited.

Councillor Brian Wilcox, the council’s cabinet member for highways and transportation and a cyclist himself, said: “Cycling throughout the county has already risen by 10% over the past five years.

“I’m sure this figure will continue to increase as people seek to save on fuel costs, as well as recognising the health benefits of getting on their bikes.

“We need to ensure the rising number of cyclists on the county’s roads are safe and can also be seen, especially during the dark winter evenings.

“These roadshows allowed us to target school pupils, the general public and employees and offer them a range of items to ensure they are more visible, as well as give them advice on keeping their bikes well-maintained.

“There are various schemes available for people wishing to cycle to work, such as a subsidised cycle purchase scheme.

“Anyone who wants to start cycling to work can also take advantage of free adult cycle training, which not only offers people advice on improving their road sense, but can also suggest suitable routes for people to take.”

Anyone wanting more information about these schemes can call the council’s sustainable travel unit on 01432 260514.

THE Highway Code advises cyclists to make sure: l Their bicycle is the right size for comfort and safety.

Lights and reflectors are kept clean and in good working order.

Tyres are in good condition and inflated to the correct pressure.

Gears are working correctly.

The chain is properly adjusted and oiled.

The saddle and handlebars are adjusted to the correct height.

It is also recommended that cycles are fitted with a bell.

THE Hereford Times Safer Driving Campaign was launched to encourage safer driving on the county’s roads after a 75% increase in fatal car accidents in 2007 compared to the previous year. For more information about road safety contact: l Herefordshire Council, on 01432 260947, offers courses for drivers who have just passed their test and people older than 70.

l More information about Mercia Accident Rescue Service (MARS) is available at marsbasics.org.uk l Time and Place, which makes road safety presentations to young people, can be contacted on 01432 820573.

l The police’s seven deadly sins campaign can be viewed at westmercia.police.uk l A leaflet explaining how Herefordshire woman can improve their safety when driving on the county’s roads alone is now available.

The leaflet has been produced in conjunction with the Suzy Lamplugh Trust and includes information about keeping safe in the event of a breakdown or accident and travelling with children.

It is available free from GEM Motoring Assist on 01342 825676.