Galashiels school kids get a head for cycle safety

Following the launch of Cycle Law Scotland’s national Cycle Safety Roadshow last month (see story below), Langlee Primary School in Galashiels hosted the second event on 24th February. Child and Family Support Officer Mary Dryburgh and the specialist cycling lawyers from Cycle Law Scotland were accompanied by Claudia Beamis, MSP for South of Scotland and Shadow Environment Minister.

Pupils at Langlee Primary with their new helmets!

Each child taking part in the events receives a free cycling helmet, donated by Cycle Law Scotland and Halfords, as part of the initiative’s “Great Cycle Helmet Giveaway”.  This was welcomed by Depute Headteacher at Langlee Primary School, Amanda Findlay, who said: “Events like this are brilliant ways to get the message that cycle safety is important across and to enrich our pupils’ understanding of the world around them.  I’m sure they’ll make great use of the cycle helmets and come away knowing just how important bike safety is.”  

Brenda Mitchell, Scottish Borders-based solicitor with Cycle Law Scotland, felt that improving safety is all about changing attitudes: “At Cycle Law Scotland we see first-hand the damage that cycling accidents can have on people.  As cyclists, we know only too well the dangers of the road and the importance of promoting safe cycling as early as possible. With these road shows we want to change attitudes.  This is the key way to improve cycle safety.  We want to make sure that children are aware of just how important wearing a helmet is.  

“Some children might not want to because of pressure from their friends or they might not think it’s that important.  We want to make clear to them that the best kind of cycling is safe cycling with a helmet.” 
 
Claudia Beamish MSP added: “I am delighted to get behind this initiative as it arrives in the Borders. Cycling is a great way for young people to get exercise but they need to be encouraged to do so safely.  Wearing a cycle helmet can help to save lives; these road shows are helping to get that message across.”

The road show has two more stops over the next two months: Edinburgh and Aberdeen.  

For more details about Cycle Law Scotland or to arrange an interview contact Rod Mitchell on 07812 366138 or visit www.cyclelawscotland.co.uk.