CHILDREN across part of Bolton could soon be walking to school in bright reflective jackets to cut the risk of accidents during the dark winter months.

The Bradshaw, Breightmet and Tonge area forum hope to use money from the neighbourhood renewal fund to buy bright yellow bibs for primary school children.

A decision is expected to be made at the next forum meeting on December 11.

Breightmet councillor Madeline Murray said: "It's a great idea to help children stay safe.

If the plan goes ahead the bibs will be produced by Bolmoor, a group based on St Helens Road, Daubhill, which employs adults with learning difficulties.

The bib scheme fits in with a Government drive to cut the number of children killed or injured on roads in Bolton and around the country.

Transport minister Mr John Spellar was meeting senior council officials and representatives of other agencies at Manchester Town Hall today to offically launch the initiative.