RAF policemen in North Yorkshire have been helping local pupils learn how to get on their bikes more safely.

The men from RAF Linton-on-Ouse, near York, have begun cycle safety lessons to help youngsters at nearby Linton Primary School become more aware of the potential hazards that await them when they venture out on the open road.

Bike training for children was first introduced in 1958 but the new Bikeability scheme - administered by Cycling England - has taken the proficiency test into the 21st century. Cycling England said it hopes that within five years all school-leaving children will have passed the test.

The hour-long after-school sessions include invaluable tips on how to avoid having an accident, signalling and manoeuvring, as well as in depth tuition on the Highway Code.

Corporal Ash Batty said: "It is essential for children to cycle safely, rather than just learn to ride a bike.

"It's also about introducing them to cycling as an everyday activity - an alternative and greener mode of transport, which brings a healthier lifestyle as well as being lots of fun."

In June 2007, the Government announced an extra £15 million will be spent over the next three years on the initiative, which will give lessons to 100,000 children.

A survey taken since the inception of the Bikeability scheme showed that 83 per cent of training organisers and instructors had seen an increase in the number of children cycling to school and that all the teachers and parents questioned agreed that it was necessary for today's children.

Today all providers of cycle training - from local authorities to independent trainers - can participate in the Bikeability award scheme, which Cycle England says is mark of quality and commitment to teaching an important life-skill.