A CAMPAIGN group has been launched in an attempt to stop people dying on the country lanes of Pendleside.

Safe Lanes in Pendleside (SLIP) is to educate residents in Pendle's rural communities about road safety to prevent people been killed on the winding lanes.

Janet Crellman, of Deer Chace, Fence, is one of those behind the new scheme. The 55-year-old said the intention was not to drive groups off the roads but alert people to the needs of other groups using the lanes.

She said: "We are trying to encourage everyone to use the roads more safely. Walkers, horse riders and cyclists all use the roads and tractor drivers have a job to do.

"There are lots of near misses and we don't want the situation getting any worse so everyone has to appreciate everyone else's role."

According to the AA, a stretch of the A682 Gisburn Road, between Nelson and Yorkshire, running through Blacko, is Britain's most dangerous highway with 44 fatal and serious accidents between 1998 and 2003.

The group which will campaign for safety in Blacko and other villages including Fence, Higham, Roughlee, Newchurch and Higherford, set off on its first walk on Saturday.

Wearing high visibility tops, the group including ramblers, dog walkers, horse riders and cyclists walked from Fence to Roughlee.

SLIP, with the backing of police and councillors, has produced a road safety leaflet which will be delivered to houses. People can pledge their support and receive a free car sticker.

Coun Shelagh Derwent, who lives in Blacko said: "The traffic has increased but the roads have not to accommodate it.

"If people are careful and walkers wear the right clothing, and walk on the right side of the road, they should be safe."

Julie Eyre, community beat manager for Barrowford and Western Parishes added: "It is about the community raising road safety issues and appreciating everyone's needs."