CHILDREN are helping to promote rail safety on the Airedale route and beyond.

A project involving youngsters at schools near the Bentham Line is using artwork to help get the 'stay safe' message across.

And more schools at locations including Steeton, Silsden and Keighley are being encouraged to get involved.

The Suzy the Sheep initiative was launched in 2018, based on a character in an illustrated rail safety guide produced by the Leeds-Morecambe Community Rail Partnership, whose Bentham Line working title refers to the route between Leeds and the west coast.

Participating schools produce artwork which is then incorporated into a display panel, by artist Alastair Nicholson, for their local station.

Rod Tickner, the Bentham Line's vice-chair, says: "The artwork at my local station, Cononley, has been in place for five years now and it is still a vibrant reinforcement of the need for vigilance and care, as trains cannot stop quickly.

"There are several level crossings and numerous foot crossings along the Bentham Line which are all public rights of way, so it is vital that the safety message reaches a wide audience."

Any schools interested in taking part should email the.bentham.line@gmail.com or call 01524 298940 for further information.