General
Youngsters pedal the safety message
21, May 2008 - 09:53

Over 150 schoolchildren will pedal their way through the streets of Ballina Co. Mayo town later this month in a novel road safety campaign. Specially-trained garda cyclists will pass on road safety skills that could help to keep the children save and alive on the nation’s roads. Each team will be accompanied by a judge at the event on Thursday, May 29th, and tested on a wide range of cycling abilities, as part of an initiative by Mayo County Council’s Road Safety Officer Noel Gibbons. “It is crucial that people learn how to cycle safely on our roads from a young age, and we aim to show them some of the key aspects of road safety and it is also a great way of showing pupils that there are very real, much healthier and environmentally friendly alternatives to using the car." said Mr Gibbons.

“Cycling can be a great fun and an excellent way for children to keep active, if done safely. This competition promotes road safety in a fun and positive way. During the competition the children learn vital lessons on how to cycle in a safe and responsible manner. I hope that this competition spurs on more children to get on their bike and get active." said Mr Gerry Butler, cycling instructor.

The teams will consist of three students over the age of ten. Complete with bicycle and helmet, they will manoeuvre their way through the traffic and utilise the lessons they have learned during cycling proficiency courses in their schools over the past year.  This Event is supported by Ballina beverages. 

The event is being organised in association with the Mayo Gardai Siochana, Mayo Civil Defence, and Mayo County Council