YOUNG pop stars are urging their North-East fans to take extra care when out on bikes.

S Club 8, formerly S Club Juniors, are backing the national Think! road safety campaign.

Latest figures show that 177 cyclists aged 11 to 16 were killed or injured on the roads in the North-East in 2001.

The biggest number were involved in accidents during the summer months, May to August.

Aimed at 12 to 15-year-olds, the advertising campaign aims to show the importance of wearing a helmet.

S Club 8 member Calvin said: "Cycling is a great way to get about. It keeps you fit and it is good fun.

"To stay safe, make sure you have a helmet and wear it whenever you are on your bike.

"I spend a lot of time street skating when I am not performing, and I always make sure I have the right safety gear on."

The campaign advertisements will appear in teen magazines next month and are supported by a cycle safety website, www.cyclesense. net