PUPILS at Severnbanks Primary School in Lydney were the first to receive high-visibility jackets from the Forest of Dean Lions Club.

The club is providing the jackets to schools in the area as part of an initiative to improve safety for children.

Forest Lions secretary Chris Holmes said: "Over recent weeks the Forest of Dean Lions Club has been in discussion with local primary schools as to how the club might support them in an initiative that will improve welfare and safety for the children.

"The consensus view was that a supply of hi-vis jackets would be most appreciated. This will help assist when walking to activities close to school as well as helping teachers identify group members."

The jackets belong to the school but children will be able use them to walk to and from school.

Each of the jackets has a Lions logo and the words "helping to keep me safe" printed on it.

The Lions Club supports charities and other organisations locally and there is more information about its work on the website http://www.forestlions">www.forestlions. org.uk