A PILOT scheme to protect children crossing roads in darkness or dull weather has been launched in Ferryhill.

The 220 pupils at Dean Bank Primary School have been given reflective wristbands.

Local PC Chris Metcalfe hopes the bands, which have been provided by Durham County Council, will make the children more visible to motorists.

PC Metcalfe said: "It is a pilot scheme but the idea could be used in other areas if other schools and groups are interested."

Headteacher Chris Young said: "The bands are going to be especially useful on dark mornings or nights when pupils are walking to school, and during the Christmas break.

"Hopefully it will make pupils more visible when they are walking to or from school, as there are some busy roads nearby and wearing a band should act as a constant reminder to them to be conscious of road safety."