CLOCKS go back on Sunday morning, and with that in mind Essex County Council is launching an appeal on Monday to encourage road users and pedestrians to wear high-visibility clothing. As the nights draw in and the hours of darkness are lengthened, cyclist

CLOCKS go back on Sunday morning, and with that in mind Essex County Council is launching an appeal on Monday to encourage road users and pedestrians to wear high-visibility clothing.

As the nights draw in and the hours of darkness are lengthened, cyclists and pedestrians are being urged to brighten up.

According to Council figures, the number of deaths and injuries on our roads increase sharply as the evenings become darker as road users become completely dependent on artificial light.

Children can benefit from the new campaign, "Be Seen - Be Safe", by visiting the Freeport designer village near Braintree on October 31, where high-visibility wraps will be given out, so they can be used on clothing, and adults can get sturdy reflective reusable shopping bags.

Councillor Norman Hume, cabinet member for highways and transportation and chairman of the casualty reduction board, said: "Children and adults alike need to be alert to the dangers of not being seen on the road, especially at twilight or after dark and in bad weather. By taking simple precautions such as wearing fluorescent or reflective clothing, and ensuring lights and reflectors are used when cycling, many accidents can be avoided."

Do you take any special measures during the winter? E-mail us at editor@dunmow-broadcast.co.uk