Week of road safety action in Cheshire to help keep riders safe

Officers from Cheshire Constabulary have been out in Cheshire, taking part in a series of road safety initiatives aimed at improving safety and awareness for riders across the county.

The week of action took part in support the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Two Wheels operation last week (Wednesday 11th to Sunday 15th June). 

Throughout the week, officers worked with schools, businesses, and community groups to promote safer riding and considerate road use, engaging with hundreds of people of all ages. 

One of the week’s highlights saw more than 40 children from Havannah Primary School take part in a unique school run, where officers rode alongside pupils to help boost their cycling confidence and road awareness. Once at school, the team delivered interactive safety sessions, reinforcing key skills in a fun and engaging way. 

During the week officers also visited Barclays employees, offering practical commuting tips and safety advice to encourage more people to ride to work confidently and safely. 

A key part of the week of action involved Close Pass operations, which were carried out in Cranage and Holmes Chapel town centre.  

These operations, which were supported by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, focused on educating drivers about the dangers of overtaking cyclists too closely.  

During the operation, a plain-clothed police officer cycled along selected routes identifying drivers who passed too close. Officers in marked police cars then stopped drivers and took them to nearby police officers and firefighters who offered on-the-spot education about the minimum safe passing distance — 1.5 metres at lower speeds and more at higher speeds.  

The operation aimed to reduce collisions and near-misses, making the roads safer for everyone. 

During the weekend officers took to Delamere Forest to speak with riders and pedestrians, alongside Cheshire West and Chester Council road safety officers. They spoke to visitors about riding safely, staying visible and mutual respect when using shared spaces. 

To round off the week, officers joined a local cycling group in Congleton, riding with them to offer advice on group riding etiquette, staying safe on rural roads, and the importance of courteous road sharing. 

PC Lee Spencer, from Cheshire Constabulary’s Roads and Crime Unit, said:

"This week of action was about more than enforcement, it’s about education, engagement, and encouraging a safer road environment for everyone. Whether it is helping children build confidence on their bikes, reminding drivers to give space when overtaking or educating cyclists on safe riding, we’re proud to support safer journeys across Cheshire for everyone. 

“We all have a responsibility to each other while out on the roads, and I hope our week of action helps drive home the message that we should all be able to share the road in the safest way possible.”