Michael Fabricant is urging road users in Lichfield to take extra care this autumn, traditionally a time when accident levels soar.

Children have now returned to school after the summer break, and with 20% of morning rush hour traffic caused by the school run, there is an even greater risk of danger. Michael Fabricant wants young people to develop safer and
healthier ways of getting to school through the RAC Grass Routes Challenge.

The Challenge encourages young people to come up with safer ways of getting to school, by reducing the number of car journeys. The Challenge, which also promotes healthier and greener modes of transport, offers schools the chance of winning £4,000 to implement the Travel Plans they design. Michael Fabricant says "Increasing levels of traffic, particularly around schools, can cause a greater risk of accidents to young people and drivers alike. Autumn in particular is a time when extra care needs to be taken, as the weather becomes wetter and the nights draw in.

"The RAC’s Grass Routes Challenge is a great way of encouraging young people to develop safer, healthier and greener ways of getting to school and involving the whole community. I am therefore urging schools in Lichfield and Burntwood to take up the RAC’s Challenge to develop School Travel Plans and help reduce the risk of accidents."

Schools can request an introductory competition pack by calling 0970 010 4443 or registering online at www.rac.co.uk The top prize, awarded for the most innovative Plan is £4,000. 20% of morning rush hour traffic is caused by the school run. 53% of secondary school students travel to school on foot – down from 61 % in 1975. 2% of children cycle to school compared to 6% in 1975.