Free bike lights at five rush-hour spots from Monday as the evenings draw in

The clocks went back this morning, and from Monday the council’s road safety officers will be out in the evening rush hour giving away temporary bike lights, reflective stickers and hi-vis rucksack covers. They’ll be at a different spot each day until Friday, from around 4:45pm until 6:30pm.

The schedule:

• Monday 26 October: St Peter’s Church area
• Tuesday 27 October: Church Road, Hove, near Grand Avenue
• Wednesday 28 October: Preston Park South
• Thursday 29 October: The Highway junction with Lewes Road
• Friday 30 October: Aquarium junction near Madeira Drive

The officers are working with Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service. They’ll be asking people on bikes to check their lights work, and offering advice to anyone walking or wheeling past. The Highway Code requires a white light at the front and a red one at the back after dark, and recommends reflective or bright clothing for people walking or wheeling. The council is also asking drivers to take extra care, because vulnerable road users can be harder to spot in low light.

Councillor Trevor Muten, the cabinet member for transport and city infrastructure, said: “Whether you’re walking, wheeling, cycling, travelling by public transport or driving, being alert and making yourself visible can make a real difference.”

The giveaway follows the opening of phase 3 of Valley Gardens earlier this month, with its new cycle lane. Work is under way on the A259 Active Travel Scheme between Hove and Portslade.