OPTICIANS in Bolton have spotted a chance to help children stay safe — as part of National Road Safety Week.

They pledged to raise awareness about road safety among local school children by donating high visibility vests to a local primary school and scout group.

Children at Kearsley West Primary School in Farnworth were presented with hundreds of vests by Robert Ogg, store manager at Specsavers in Bolton town centre.

High visibility vests were also donated to the 8th Bolton East Scout Group in Breightmet by Specsavers staff at Middlebrook Retail Park.

The vests are part of an initiative set up by the company to help increase the safety of local children when out and about by making it easier for motorists to spot them.

Robert said it was important for children to be seen in the dark nights and mornings as they walk to and from school.

He said: ‘At this time of year with the dark mornings and nights, combined with increasingly wintery weather, it can be difficult for motorists to see pedestrians.

"Many children are walking home from school at dusk, which is a particularly hazardous time.

‘With this in mind, we decided to spread the message of Road Safety Week while increasing the safety of children in Bolton and the surrounding areas by donating high visibility vests to local schools and groups.

‘As part of the initiative, we are also hoping to raise awareness of free glasses and eye tests that are available to under 16-year-olds.

National Road Safety Week runs from November 17-23 and is run by the charity Brake. The campaign appeals to everyone to "look out for each other on roads, because being selfish can lead to tragedy.

"We’re particularly calling on drivers to protect people on foot and bike by going 20 or below in communities, looking longer and taking it slow at junctions and bends, and giving people plenty of room."

To find out more about Road Safety Week visit www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk.