THE expansion of a cycling proficiency scheme is helping to ensure the safety of youngsters across Hartlepool.

Courses run by HartlepoolBorough Council and the Health Action Zone are take place in 27 of the town's 30 primary schools.

One of the latest schools to benefit was Rift House Primary, which hosted its first course in the past few weeks.

Headteacher Julie Robinson said: "We are committed to raising academic standards, but it is also important to provide pupils with life skills as par of a wider curriculum.

"Most children have a bike, and cycling proficiency courses help to ensure that they understand the importance of safety, and the dangers which exist on the streets."

The courses last five days and involve theory and practical rising.

Paul Watson, the council's road safety officer said: "We have a commitment to reducing the number of casualties on Hartlepool's roads, and it is vital that children learn the importance of safety at a young age.

"These courses, which have a 96 per cent pass rate, will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives, and hopefully prevent them from becoming accident victims."