A scheme that aims to help students with learning difficulties travel independently and safely has been launched in Hartlepool.

Cycling licences are being issued to youngsters at Catcote School when they successfully complete an 11-week safer cycling course run in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council's road safety unit.

However, the students run the risk of having their licences revoked if they fail to pay proper attention to safety.

Teacher Georgie Drumm said: "The aim of the course is to give our students the confidence to cycle to school, work or college.

"They have to have their bikes checked once a term to ensure they are roadworthy. They must also wear full safety gear whenever they ride their bikes. Also, if staff see them behaving improperly while out and about then they could be reported.

"Failure to observe safety rules will initially result in a warning and then their licences will be taken away. In some cases, students might even have to do the course again before they can have their licences back."

The first students to complete the course were aged 16 plus, but the idea has proved so popular the school is now looking to involve its younger pupils.

The cycling course is complementing successful pedestrian training and public transport initiatives that have already been run by the school and the road safety unit.