PARENTS in Lancashire have been warned not to neglect safety when buying bikes as Christmas presents this year.

Lancashire County Council's Road Safety Group reminds parents and children to be aware of cycle safety after it was revealed that one in four parents who have bought their child a bike as a Christmas present haven't bought them a helmet.

The figures are based on new research from the Government's THINK! campaign, whose research has revealed that more than half the parents who have bought bikes have never purchased lights -- a legal requirement for riding in the dark -- and as many as 85 per cent neglected to buy them fluorescent or reflective clothing. These are essential for children to be seen clearly on roads, especially in the dark winter months.

With 130 child cycle casualties in the county reported to the police in 2002, the road safety group advise wearing a helmet at all times when riding a bike, as they have been proven to lower the risk of a serious head injury .

County Councillor Jean Yates, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, said: "With almost 5,000 child cyclists killed or injured on UK roa4ds in 2002 cycle safety equipment is vital to protect your child when out and about.

"Helmets should be worn properly and fitted correctly to ensure they provide sufficient protection."

The group also advises buying bicycles with safety in mind and, if possible, buy from a specialist shop.