PUPILS at a Church primary school were given 200 reflective bands to promote the message of road safety.

Children at St Nicholas’ Primary School, off Dill Hall Lane, were visited by police community support officers, who handed out the reflectors, donated by haulage company Park Royal Group.

The company, which has a quarry in Accrington, took along a 12-wheel dumper truck to help teach the children the importance of being ‘safe and seen’ near roads.

The initiative was part of National Road Safety Week and more than 1,000 children across Hyndburn have received safety talks.

St Nicholas’ head teacher Jacqueline Gilbert said: “It was a great initiative run with the police community officers linked to road safety. It is very important that road safety is taught in schools and that children be seen near roads.

“The children thought the afternoon was absolutely wonderful and a lot of children have come in with their reflectors clipped to their bags and coats.

“One little boy said he could not wait until it was dark so he could test his out.

“They have really taken it on board and it was really nice of the Park Royal Group to give a little bit back to the community to try and keep children safe.”

Park Royal managing director Nicola Robinson said: “I think it is really important to teach road safety in schools.

“I am a parent myself and as a business I am very enthusiastic for us to make sure we do give back to the community and have a positive influence.”

PC Kat Stokes said: “Going into schools to talk to children is a great way of building relationships whilst explaining how the police are there to protect them and how they can stay safe on the roads.

“The message is particularly important now the darker nights are here and we will be continuing to visit schools to ensure children remain safe on the roads.”