BE BRIGHT, be seen – that’s the message to all road users in Devon after the clocks went back.

Devon County Council is urging pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders to make sure they are visible during the dark winter nights by wearing reflective and fluorescent clothing.

Drivers are also being asked to use their headlights and take extra care and look out for all other road users as the winter nights draw in, especially when visibility is limited due to mist, rain and fog.

Cllr Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council’s cabinet member for highway management, said: “It is really important to make sure you can be easily seen when travelling to and from school or work, especially at this time of year.

“It will soon be noticeably darker much earlier in the day and it won’t be long before dusk falls as early as 4pm – just as schoolchildren are travelling home and rush hour begins.

“Bright fluorescent clothing and reflective strips on jackets, bags or helmets can make a real difference when it comes to being seen by passing traffic, so make sure you’re wearing some.

“I would also encourage drivers to use their headlights, not just when it is dark but also whenever the light is dim or in bad weather so not only can they see other road users but they, themselves, can be seen more easily.

“Whether you’re a driver, rider or pedestrian, we can all play our part in helping to make sure Devon’s roads are a safe place to be during these dark winter months.”