SCHOOL children are being taught the rules of the road in a bid to promote safer cycling.

Neighbourhood Police Officers in Briercliffe have been visiting pupils at Briercliffe Primary School to teach them how to ride their bikes more safely as part of the "Passport to Safer Cycling" Programme.

The scheme, developed in accordance with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, aims to improve young cyclists' understanding of road usage.

Police hope this will improve safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

Community beat manager PC Ian Thompson and Police community support officer Rachel Lonsdale have been teaching children about the road and traffic environment and the highway code.

The two officers have also jumped on their police bikes and taught the youngsters practical skills such as signaling and turning.

PCSO Rachel Lonsdale: "Cycling is a fun activity and a healthy form of exercise for youngsters but it is important that they ride safely.

"We're keen to make sure youngsters know how to ride their bikes properly so that we hopefully reduce the risk of any of them being injured on our local roads."