More cyclists will be on Irish roads this summer enjoying the warmer weather with the introduction of the bike to work scheme and a growing interest in people keeping fit.

The Give Bikes 1.5m Pass Safely Campaign Leaflet.

"Driving can be a stressful and challenging experience but with cyclists in the mix extra tensions can arise. Equally, cyclists are very vulnerable and the road can be a scary place if you don't have the protective shell of a car body. That is why encouraging mutual respect and appreciation between car and bike users through the size matters campaign is so important." The campaign reminds motorists to overtake cyclists with care and give at least 1.5m space between the vehicle and cyclist said Mr Noel Gibbons road safety officer Mayo County Council.

The benefits of cycling for commuting, congestion reduction, and recreation in Mayo are apparent. The organisers of the cycling promotion campaign are, however, very keen to also reduce the number of cyclists injured despite the increased numbers of cyclists on the roads. "Cyclists are legitimate road users entitled to mix with other traffic and while an extensive regional cycle network is planned and there has been great progress in developing dedicated cycle facilities, it is not feasible to build an entirely separate cycle network, so the campaign is focusing on two key behaviour messages to encouraging safer motorist and cyclist behaviour."

"The campaign provides an excellent reminder to motorists to take care around cyclists on the road. Looking out for cyclists and giving cyclists more room while overtaking are two simple measures that motorists can do to help improve road safety for cyclists and themselves."

The campaign reinforces that motorists and cyclists are subject to the same rules of the road meaning that cyclists have to observe the rules and courtesies expected of motorised vehicles on the road and in turn, they need to be treated with similar respect by motorists.

"It is great to see more cyclists on the roads as cycling is fun, efficient, good for you, and frees up congested streets. But safety is a concern, so we hope that this campaign helps raise motorist awareness while also reinforcing the importance for cyclists to ensure they are visible to motorists."

"The campaign messages will be promoted across the region including the distribution of a leaflet format of these signs to all ADI driving instructors in Co.Mayo to build awareness among all learner drivers. We look forward to more cyclists using the road network,and we encourage all cyclists to have a safe bike and helmet, gain cycling skills and to plan their cycle routes carefully".