Officers hold spoke-tacular cycle safety event in Axminster
Last week, officers from the local neighbourhood policing team held a family fun day at Axminster Skate Park in a bid to empower and educate young cyclists.
During the event, PC Ben Middleton, PC Sam Bowyer, PC Jessica Crabtree spoke with lots of children and their families about general bike safety, the rules of the road, and signed dozens up to the national bike register database, which deters thieves and helps officers to reunite recovered stolen bicycles with their rightful owners.
The team were joined by Mary and Karen from local food charity ‘Nourish’ who handed out more than 50 meals to children at parks in the local area.
Neighbourhood Beat Manager for Axminster, PC Ben Middleton, said, “We were really pleased with the turnout and had lots of valuable conversations about bike safety with families living locally.
“We handed out certificates, property-marked dozens of bicycles and handed out information about how to register bikes on the national database.”
Police recommend that young cyclists follow their safety advice:
- Always wear a helmet. This will help to prevent serious injuries if you come off your bike.
- Be safe, Be seen. Wear bright clothing when cycling during the day and reflective clothing when cycling at night to make sure pedestrians and road users can see you.
- Make sure your bicycle is fitted with lights when cycling at night. You should have a white light at the front and a red light at the back, as well as a red reflector at the back and amber reflectors on your pedals.
- Use designated cycle paths where possible.
For more information about road safety as a cyclist, visit: https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/cycle-safety/
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