VOLUNTEERS are needed to help youngsters get on their bikes and make sure they ride safely.

Mayor of Droitwich, Councillor Anne Taft, (Con-Droitwich South East), Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator David Paget and Worcestershire County Council's road safety department have got together to ask for more people to volunteer as cycle training instructors in the town.

There is currently a shortage of instructors to help children pass the Cycle Skills and the Silver Standard courses, and more and more schools are requesting bike training. Training and equipment are provided by Worcestershire County Council and training expenses are covered for each course.

David Paget, vice-chairman of Droitwich Spa Neighbourhood Watch, had been asked by many parents why the cycling proficiency award was no longer available in the town.

After contacting the awards office where he was advised that the award was still in place, but it was difficult to continue with it as there was a very large shortage of volunteers to act as instructors.

Mr Paget said: "Neighbourhood Watch is so often linked to crime reduction, when in fact our aims are to look after our neighbours including the safety and security of everyone in our community, including children."

Anyone with a bit of spare time and who is interested in running a course can call 01905 766826.