05 Jan 07

1,000 members of staff and students are set to get lucky on 13 January 2007 when 'first come' will be 'first served' with a set of free cycle lights.

This initiative to send staff and students into a safe new year is run by the University's recently established Mutual Insurance Company - Oxford Mutual Ltd. The wholly-owned subsidiary company of the University was set up in August last year to manage the University's insurances.

One of its key aims is to promote greater risk management and health and safety awareness for individual University staff and students.

Stephen Howarth, from the University's Finance Division, said: 'Good risk management makes perfect sense as it could mean fewer insurance claims which in turn could help reduce insurance premiums.

'This free lights initiative will hopefully be the first of a number of schemes that we are looking to promote. It has been made possible thanks to the co-operation of the Student Union (OUSU) and with the extremely generous support of both Dawes Cycles Ltd and the local branch of the Clydesdale Bank, who are helping to meet the costs.'

Nick Gilbert, Cycle Crime Reduction Officer at Thames Valley Police, said: 'Obviously cyclist safety is of paramount importance so I applaud this excellent initiative. As cycling after dark without lights is an offence that can attract an on-the-spot-fine of £30, I advise everyone eligible to apply or ensure you use suitable lights.'

To get your set of lights, simply call in person at the University Offices, Wellington Square, on 13 January between 11am and 3pm, and bring your University ID Card with you. The first 1,000 callers will be given a free set of front and rear lights.