A CYCLING proficiency course designed to keep youngsters safe on the roads has proved a success.

The first two courses held by special constables in Chester-le-Street were fully booked.

The courses, held on successive Sunday afternoons, are for riders aged nine and over and are run by police officers trained by Durham County Council's road safety department.

The courses are being held as part of a nationwide drive to halve the number of child road casualties by 2010.

Divisional officer for the special constabulary David Millon said: "It is vital that young people are given the opportunity to learn the basic skills of riding a bicycle correctly and safely.

"These courses provide a free opportunity to do just that.

"The scheme is just one part of a major effort to reduce the number of child road casualties.

"With our roads becoming busier each year we need to do all we can to teach young people to be aware and alert."

Enrolment forms are available at Chester-le-Street police station in Newcastle Road, and should be returned a week before the course starts.

The course dates are May 25 to June 1; June 22 to 29; July 13 to 20; July 27 to August 3; August 10 to 17; August 24 to 31, and September 7 to 14.