Lothian Buses have funded the purchase of 500 high visibility jackets, as part of a winter cyclist safety campaign.
The jackets will be given away for free, alongside lights and reflectors in a series of evening advice events on the Meadows.
The latest move by the firm is part of a campaign that has been put together by local cycling charity, The Bike Station, whose staff will also provide free bike maintenance to cyclists at the meadows events.
Ian Craig, Managing Director of Lothian Buses said: “We are proud to be supporting this initiative from the Bike Station. As part of our Safety and Awareness programme, Lothian Buses is committed to enhancing our relationship with cyclists in and around Edinburgh.
“We hope these hi-viz jackets help to keep cyclists safe on the roads this winter."
Lothian Buses has been praised by cycling campaigners for their pro-active approach towards cyclists. Every driver at the firm already receives unique, “cyclist awareness training.”
The free safety equipment and advice events will take place on the Meadows every Wednesday between 4 and 7pm until the 23rd of November.
Mark Sydenham, Manager at the Bike Station said on their blog: “The aim is to give cyclists the basic equipment they need if they are cycling without. With increasing numbers of cyclists on Edinburgh's streets, and with winter now upon us, it's more important than ever for cyclists to be aware of the basics to make sure they are visible and legal, to keep themselves safe.
“And as well as lights and reflectors, it's vital to keep your bike in good condition to make winter cycling easier and to make your bike last longer.”
The Bike Station winter cycling campaign follows a drive by the Police in October that saw 247 cyclists stopped around the city for risky cycling in one week.
Council statistics on the number of serious accidents in the south of the city, show that there were none involving a cyclist and a bus in 2010. There were also no serious accidents between pedestrians and cyclists in the area in that year.
IN DETAIL:
Cyclists and motorists stopped during safety week
Cycling and buses: audio documentary
Cyclists on pavements: How dangerous are they?
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