Young road safety champions are celebrated at Suffolk Junior Road Safety Officer awards

More than 150 pupils, teachers and guests came together to celebrate the achievements of Suffolk's Junior Road Safety Officers (JRSOs) at this year's JRSO Awards.

The awards recognised the outstanding work of the county's young road safety ambassadors, who have spent the academic year promoting safer travel within their schools and beyond.

Now in its 24th year, the Junior Road Safety Officer scheme continues to inspire children across Suffolk to become advocates for safer roads.

This year, an impressive 80 primary schools took part in the programme.

From organising competitions, delivering assemblies and producing newsletters to creating social media campaigns, the pupils demonstrated enthusiasm, creativity and a real commitment to sharing important road safety messages.

Schools also developed exciting partnerships with a variety of organisations and individuals, making this year's projects particularly innovative.

JRSOs worked alongside Community Speed Watch groups, construction companies, the British Horse Society, local farmers, an Olympic cyclist and members of the deaf community to learn about different road users and promote safer behaviour.

The awards ceremony was attended by Councillor Chris Hudson, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways, who congratulated the pupils on their hard work, creativity and dedication to improving road safety across the county.

Councillor Hudson, said: "It was a real privilege to join so many talented and enthusiastic young people at this year's JRSO Awards.

“The work these pupils have done — from assemblies and newsletters to social media campaigns and community partnerships — shows just how much young people can achieve when they are given the opportunity to make a difference.

“Road safety matters to all of us, and it is incredibly encouraging to see the next generation taking it so seriously. I want to congratulate every JRSO, their teachers, and their schools on a fantastic year."

Holly Jacobs, Senior Road Safety Officer and JRSO Coordinator for Suffolk County Council, said: "I am incredibly proud that the Junior Road Safety Officer Scheme is still thriving after 24 years.

“Its continued success is thanks to the enthusiasm and dedication of the schools, staff and pupils who have embraced the programme and championed road safety in their communities.

“A big thank you to everyone who has played a part in making this important initiative a success."

The annual awards celebrated not only the creativity and dedication of the pupils but also the invaluable support of teachers, school staff and partner organisations who have helped make the programme such a success.

For more information go to https://suffolkroadsafe.com/education-home/junior-road-safety-officer/ or email jrso@suffolk.gov.uk