AT THIS time of year and given the weather forecasts looking ahead for the east of the country, it is worthwhile highlighting a few reminders and considerations when travelling on the roads within East Lothian.

The days are getting lighter and warmer; however, it is still important to drive to the conditions being faced.

My officers, supported by roads policing units, are regularly monitoring our roads to detect speeding and other motoring offences. Clearly, areas identified by you as being a problem and hotspot locations are prioritised for enforcement.

Your local community officers are routinely out and about to ensure safe driving and parking around schools, as this remains a priority, and these areas are monitored continually throughout the region. This is undertaken to educate and remind road users of their responsibilities.

It is worth reminding the residents of East Lothian that, despite the festive season being over, we still have a zero tolerance approach to drink driving and anyone found driving under the influence will be robustly dealt with and appear before court.

We continue to work with partner agencies in East Lothian to ensure your safety but please bear in mind that the roads are still prone to winter weather, including flooding, ice and heavy snow, so ensure vehicles are kitted out accordingly and are roadworthy.

Improved weather and lighting will result in more cyclists and motorcyclists in the coming months, so be wary. In recent weeks we have had one incident on our roads whereby a cyclist was hit by a passing vehicle. Thankfully there was no serious injury; however, it is a reminder to respect all road users and allow plenty of room.

Other useful tips and advice can be found at www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe/road-safety/winter-road-safety

And finally I would like to take this opportunity to wish PI Alan Hogarth, community inspector for the Haddington area, all the very best in his retirement. Having completed nearly 30 years of police service, he retires this Friday.

He has served in East Lothian over the last three years and his hard work and endeavours over that period have made a demonstrable difference to the communities of East Lothian.

Alan worked with vigour and dedication throughout his time here and has forged many positive relationships with partners and members of the public towards improving the quality of life and safety of people living in East Lothian.

I know I speak on their behalf and the many colleagues who have has the pleasure of working with Alan over the years when I say ‘thank you’ for his efforts and wish him a very happy retirement.