The number of people killed on Bradford roads has fallen - bucking the increasing trend across West Yorkshire.

In 2006 there were 23 people killed on Bradford's roads - down from 26 in 2005. However, according to figures released by the Department for Transport (DfT) the fatalities across West Yorkshire increased by 14 per cent from 99 to 113 in the 12-month period.

Child casualties in Bradford increased from 320 to 327, and the numbers of children being killed or seriously injured also rose by seven from 32 in 2005 to 39 last year.

The number of cyclists injured also increased.

However, there was a reduction in the number of pedestrians injured on roads around Bradford.

Councillor Anne Hawkesworth, Bradford Council's executive member for environment and culture, said: "We have a 12-year record of working with local people to deliver road safety, with notable achievements - our key aim is to use the knowledge and influence that is there within local communities to bring us greater savings in road deaths and serious injuries."

Bradford Council chiefs and road safety bodies say 86 different initiatives are in place to reduce the number of road deaths across the area. An emphasis is being placed on social responsibility and engagement, roads policing enforcement and looking at ways to engage young drivers and make them more responsible.

There will also be a major speed management initiative as part of a £2 million investment in road safety over the next two years. Youngsters in primary schools are also being targeted and educated about pedestrian skills - with all primary schools in the district receiving advice.

Nationally the number of people killed in road accidents fell to 3,172 from 3,201. However, the number of children killed on roads increased by 20 per cent.

The figures come two weeks before a Commons report is due to recommend tougher restrictions for learner drivers in a bid to crack down on the number of accidents.

The Transport Select Committee is expected to publish its findings into an inquiry examining whether pre-test requirements, including the number of hours' or miles' driven, additional training, restrictions on motorway or night-time driving and a limit on the numbers of passengers who can be carried would help reduce deaths.

Last month the Government announced it is to consult on lowering the drink-drive limit which could see drivers over the limit after only one drink in an attempt to reduce road deaths.

Bradford Council and its partners in road safety were commended in the Municipal Journal Awards for 2007 for the work done to reduce road injuries to children.

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