CHILDREN walking to and from school in a busy Rossendale village have been given a road safety aid -- thanks to a generous donation from a local company.

The move comes after Valley police teamed up with kitchen manufacturers J&J Ormerods to help make youngsters' journeys less hazardous during the darker winter mornings and nights.

Pupils at Stacksteads primary schools St Joseph's and Holy Trinity have been given 600 high visibility vests donated by the Newchurch Road business.

The bright yellow jackets cost more than £1,000 and will make it easier for motorists to spot children at night.

Dave Tomlinson, transport manager for J&J Ormerods, said: "We are a big company in a relatively small village and we have around 60 vehicles going up and down the A681, which is already congested. So we thought it would be a good idea.

"We noticed road safety charity Break had done similar things to promote safety for children and increasing the profile of road safety. We want to do our bit."

The high-profile scheme has been co-ordinated by police community support officer Nick Stratton, based in Bacup. He said: "The high visibility vests for pupils will ensure motorists can clearly see them and therefore help reduce the risk of them becoming involved in a road accident."

Jan Gibson, headteacher of St Joseph's, Huttock End Lane, where the vests will be handed out this week, said: "We are delighted. The fact other people are thinking about the safety of our children is wonderful.

"We are extremely grateful to the company and to the police."

John Aspin, head of Holy Trinity in Booth Road, added: "In school we have an extensive road safety agenda as part of the curriculum, so anything that helps promote that is a welcome gesture."