Children cycling to school as part of a national effort this week should wear bright clothes, helmets and use lights as the nights get darker, officials have said.

York Council’s transport spokesperson Cllr Kate Ravilious said drivers also needed to play their part in keeping roads safe by checking their mirrors and keeping their distance from bikes.

Jason McAleese, of the Modeshift sustainable transport organisation, said young people would only embrace active travel if they feel safe and confident.

It came amid a push for more children to get on their bikes for Cycle to School Week from Monday, September 23 to Friday, September 27.

Bikeability, which provides in-school cycling classes, has also said that children should make themselves more visible.

York Council has dubbed its push for more visibility as Be Bright, Be Seen and Be Safe.

The council also advises cyclists of all ages to ride about 1 metre away from the kerb and to make eye contact with other road users at junctions and crossings.

Cyclists are also advised to use their bells to alert pedestrians and not to ride on pavements and through red lights.

Transport Executive Member Cllr Ravilious said wearing bright clothing, using lights after dusk and wearing a helmet would help keep everyone safe.

Cllr Ravilious said: “Cycling brings independence and it’s a fantastic way of building exercise into everyone’s day and improving health.

“As the nights draw in it’s important to be visible on your cycle and drivers also need to play their role.”

Modeshift’s Mr McAleese said safety while cycling is crucial.

He said: "If we want young people to embrace more active and sustainable ways of traveling to and from school, they must feel both safe and confident.”