A CAMPAIGN to keep youngsters safe as they travel to and from school has been launched.

Police were outside Dunbar Primary School’s Lochend Campus on Tuesday morning and spoke to drivers and youngsters travelling to school by bicycle or scooter, as well as parents.

They gave advice on the benefits of wearing a helmet when cycling, as well as carrying out speed checks on neighbouring Kellie Road.

Constables Paul Gibson and Alan Musgrave stressed they were keen for youngsters and parents to cycle or walk to school in a safe manner.

PC Gibson said: “Today’s activity provided an opportunity for us to not only give some advice on the best ways to stay safe but to also speak directly to the members of the local community and listen to any concerns they may have.” Inspector Richard Latto, of the Road Policing Unit, said: “The latest crime figures released this week reveal an 18 per cent reduction in the number of people killed or serious injured in the Lothians and Scottish Borders and that is a trend I am keen to improve on.”