MOTORISTS in Alcester are being encouraged to be considerate towards cyclists as part of a new campaign supported by Warwickshire County Council's Road Safety team.

Figures from the Department for Transport show that the numbers of cyclist casualties on the roads are increasing and with the help of Olympic cycling hero Jessica Varnish, the second phase of the 'What Matters Most' campaign is highlighting the things motorists would like cyclists to know about using the roads and vice versa.

Warwickshire County Council’s portfolio holder for Community Safety Councillor Les Caborn said: “Misjudgement of the amount of space needed to overtake a bike is one of the common causes for collision involving cyclists.

"Driver distraction is also often cited as a risk due to motorist reliance on modern communication and Sat Nav devices. Cyclists also have a responsibility for their safety by being as visible as possible, ensuring a well maintained bike and keeping their full attentions on the road. This campaign focuses on safe and sensible sharing of the road by highlighting these issues.”

For tips and advice on safer cycling visit warwickshire.gov.uk/safetycycling.