ROAD safety for young cyclists was promoted at an Inverclyde Phoenix Car Club primary schools’ event.

This was the 41st they had organised and it was visited by Inverclyde MP Iain MacKenzie, who congratulated the winners and praised Phoenix for its work as a charity promoting road safety.

The MP told them: “I’m a cyclist, so I have a personal interest in the safety of cyclists as well as pedestrians and other road users.” Club president, Mike Etherington, said the standard was very high and the results very close.

He said: “All of the entrants did extremely well.

“As usual, all primary schools were invited to enter the event, which attracted an entry of 27 boys and girls from 14 of Inverclyde’s 20 primary schools.

“It started off with a cycle check, followed by a written test on aspects of road safety and cycle maintenance. Entrants were then conducted through a mock road route, and were instructed by marshals on the finer points of starting off safely, overtaking a parked car, turning right at a controlled ‘T’ junction, negotiating traffic lights and a roundabout and also doing a slalom cycle control test.

“The competitors then cycled around the course as if on a normal road, with marshals marking their ability at each test.” Mike thanked all those who took part, especially the parents and teachers for their commitment to helping with road safety.

He said: “We can see the benefits today. As the roads become busier and with today’s hectic lifestyle, it is reassuring that so many are taking the time to address the issue of safety which is, of course, the primary purpose of the Inverclyde Phoenix Car Club.” Mike made special mention of young volunteers Sarah McEachran, Calum O’Neill, Ellie Sinclair and Sophie Sinclair, who saved the day by standing in for marshals who were unable to attend.

Club vice-president Raymond McElroy said there has been an improvement in cycling standards at the event in recent years.

He said: “With the ongoing development of cycle lanes and shared cycle and pedestrian pavements, Inverclyde is a fantastic area for cyclists of all ages.” Phoenix members will visit the winners’ schools next month to present the prizes.

The winning entrants were: Girls – (Campbell Sinclair Trophy): 1st Katie McGeachie, Ardgowan Primary; 2nd Michaela Lyons, All Saints Primary; and 3rd Leah Carby, Whinhill Primary.

Boys (Mike Etherington Trophy): 1st Zack Robertson, Lady Alice Primary; 2nd Scott Pearson, Inverkip Primary; and 3rd PJ Bryceland, Moorfoot Primary.

McQUARRIE Memorial Cup (Best School Team): Masha Robertson and PJ Bryceland, Moorfoot Primary.