TNT 'pedals' safe cycling message to South Warwickshire youngsters

06-Oct-2005

Britain's leading business-to-business express delivery company 'pedalled' a unique safety message to young cyclists in Stratford and South Warwickshire to help keep them safe on the county's roads.

Following very successful appearances at the annual multi agency Crucial Crew safety initiative, Atherstone-based delivery giant, TNT Express Services, once again worked in tandem with Warwickshire County Council to give 1500 schoolchildren a hands-on lesson in road safety at Stoneleigh Park, Warwick.

Operations Training Officer Dave Copping and TNT driving assessors Steve Ward of Atherstone, Nuneaton-based Dave Evans, and Stuart Wood, of TNT's Worcester Depot, stepped out from behind the wheel to deliver some expert advice on safe cycling near large goods vehicles - all with the help of a 40-tonne TNT articulated lorry.

Sound advice - Loxley School pupils Jack Benton (on bike) (l-r) Katie Reynolds, Ryan Russell and April Ward at the Crucial Crew event under the watchful gaze of Dave Copping, TNT Operations Training Officer, Jane Lees Warwickshire County Council Road Safety Officer and (far right) Ruth James, Head of People Development at TNT Express Services.

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Neil Griffiths, Director of Health, Safety and Environmental for TNT Express UK and Ireland, said: "As a recognised health and safety leader within the transport industry we are keen to play our part in reducing the risks faced by all travellers on Britain's highways. Crucial Crew is a superb vehicle for conveying the safety message to some of the most vulnerable road users - children.

"With a fleet of almost 3,000 vehicles it is vital we educate young people on the safest way to cycle when encountering Large Goods Vehicles. By taking part in Crucial Crew we give these youngsters the road safety knowledge that will stand them in good stead, now and in the future."

Neil explained that Large Goods Vehicles had a number of 'blind spots', particularly when manoeuvering, parking or negotiating tight turning areas. Although TNT drivers are trained to be vigilant at all times, it is sometimes difficult to see cyclists from the cab. In a bid to minimise the risk of accidents the company has issued five top tips on road safety for cyclists.

Keep your distance - Large Goods Vehicles needs lots of space when turning at junctions and negotiating roundabouts

Large goods vehicles have blind spots - if you can't see yourself in the side mirrors then the driver can't see you

Always wear a cycle helmet and other protective clothing

Be visible - wear reflective clothing, particularly on dark nights or in poor weather conditions

Before every journey check your bicycle is roadworthy

Jane Lees, Road Safety Officer, Education and Training, said: "We were delighted that TNT joined us for the Crucial Crew event again. The company has a wealth of experience and gives the children taking part a unique industry insight and perspective on road safety. The message TNT gives out really hits home and makes the children think.

"The Crucial Crew event is a very hands-on learning experience for Warwickshire schoolchildren, teaching them how to recognise danger, what to do if they come across hazardous situations and how to avoid accidents."