POLICE in Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge and Cheddar are launching a campaign to promote road safety to cyclists.

Operation Glitter launches today and is aimed at reducing the amount of serious road traffic collisions occurring because bicycles are not properly lit.

As part of the scheme, people found without lights on their bikes will be given a fixed penalty notice and a Glitter pack.

The pack contains a 10 per cent discount voucher for bicycle lights from local firms Skid Marx in Highbridge and the Cheddar Auto Parts.

If the recipients of the FPN buy bicycle lights and provide the receipt at either Burnham or Cheddar Police station within seven days, the ticket will be written off.

PCSO Pearl Hine said: "At this time of year, people often go out in the dark each morning and come home in the dark at night – meaning it is essential they have proper bicycle lighting.

"It is not just children riding their bicycles to and from school but adults who ride to work as well.

"Operation Glitter focuses on educating cyclists on their safety and the safety of others but it is optional to participate.

"If offenders choose not to take part, then they will be prosecuted."

She continued: "Last year, 86 people were identified as cycling without appropriate lighting, 79 of which elected to participate in the scheme. Only seven chose not to.

" I have seen many incidents where people have suffered injuries in collisions because they can't be seen on our roads. If people are not properly lit they are taking their lives in their own hands."

The Glitter packs also include leaflets advising riders on security marking and cycle maintenance.