LANCASHIRE County Council has responded to calls from a cycling organisation not to make helmets compulsory by saying there is no substitute for the protection they offer.

CTC, the UK's biggest cycling organisation, representing more than 70,000 members, says compulsory helmets would put thousands of people off taking to the saddle, causing the government to fail in their bid to increase the number of people cycling by up to eight per cent.

But Councillor Nora Ward, cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: "We strongly encourage people to wear helmets in line with government and scientific advice. There's no substitute for the protection a helmet gives in the event of an accident."

But Norma Duckett, of the East Lancashire District Association of the Cyclists Touring Club, said: " There's no reason to make them compulsory. Helmets are for children and young people who want to do stunts not for those of us who cycle for a hobby. They can put people off."