By Monica Gibson

AROUND 1,400 pupils from schools across East Renfrewshire took part in a walk to highlight road safety.

Youngsters from St Mark’s Primary, St John’s Primary and Carlibar Primary, all in Barrhead, walked in pairs and wore bright clothing as they taught grown-ups an important lesson on the importance of responsible driving.

The walk started in the town’s Main Street and continued to Cowan Park, where the children were met by representatives of the emergency service.

Once there, pupils were given advice on the importance of staying alert near roads.

Later that day, youngsters from St Thomas’ Primary and Neilston Primary took part in a similar event, which involved walking to Kingston Playing Fields in a bid to get the road safety message across to motorists.

Michael Goldie, community safety officer at East Renfrewshire Council, told the Barrhead News: “The road safety walk was part of a week-long programme in which first responders visited schools and held assemblies about the responsibility that youngsters have in keeping themselves safe.

“We talk about crossing at the right places, taking help from lollipop people where available and wearing brighter colours to improve visibility.

“During the walk itself, children carried banners and sang songs to influence drivers and other pedestrians to conduct themselves in a way that won’t put anyone in danger.

“Zak the Zebra, who is a road safety mascot on behalf of the Brake road safety charity, was also there to add a bit of fun to the occasion.

“The event went very well, with roughly 1,400 pupils taking part from Barrhead and Neilston.

“We hope the children will keep the message in mind during the holidays and have a nice, safe break.”