THE father of a Burnley youngster killed in a cycling accident is backing a new campaign to encourage youngsters to wear helmets that could help save lives.

James Hadfield, whose son, also called James, died in March, said it was essential everything was done to ensure children riding bikes wore helmets.

James, 15, of Carlton Road, died after an accident in Piccadilly Park, Burnley. He had refused to wear a safety helmet because it was not fashionable.

Mr Hadfield today gave his support to a new Government road safety campaign 'Use your head - Wear a helmet'.

The campaign has also been backed by two of Britain's Olympic cycling team, Nicole Cooke and Jamie Staff.

Last year in Lancashire 22 children were killed out of a total of 155 hurt in all types of road accidents.

Mr Hadfield said: "I wish this campaign every success because anything that can be done to encourage children to wear helmets has to be worth while.

"I do not want to read in the local paper of another youngster who has died in a cycling accident who wasn't wearing a helmet and if what happened to James makes children wear helmets at least some good will have come from his death."

Olympian Nicole said: "There is nothing better than being out and about on my bike, but it is easy to forget that drivers do not always see you, even if you can see them.

"I wear a helmet every time I ride my bike."

Parents of younger cyclists can get safety tips and advice by contacting local road safety officers through the council or on 0870 1226236.