South Yorkshire Police Launch Major Crackdown for Safer Roads
South Yorkshire Police are pulling out all the stops this week to make roads safer. Expect horses on the streets, undercover officers on bikes, and proactive patrols as part of the Project EDWARD campaign running from 17 to 24 October.
Project EDWARD: Every Day Without A Road Death
This national week aims to slash UK road deaths. This year’s theme, “Changing minds, changing behaviour,” targets everyone on the roads – drivers, cyclists, horse riders, and pedestrians alike.
The campaign overlaps with the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s speed awareness drive, boosting efforts to cut fatalities, serious injuries, and raise vital safety awareness.
Officers Crack Down on Risky Road Habits
Roads Policing Sergeant Matt Duffy revealed the force’s no-nonsense approach. “Creating safer roads is one of our core policing efforts. We see too often the shock and heartache road crashes cause,” he said.
“Speeding, seatbelt offences, drink and drug driving, and mobile phone use behind the wheel — these are stop-able behaviours that wreck lives. Changing these habits will save your life and others’.”
Sergeant Duffy also outlined the team’s action plan: “We’ll be running safe pass operations for horses and cyclists, visiting schools to educate pupils, and enforcing the law across the roads. It’s not just drivers – every road user has a role in safer streets.”
Community Partnership Pushes Road Safety Message
South Yorkshire’s Safer Roads Partnership is backing the campaign in full force. Their chairman, Tom Finnegan Smith, stressed the role of everyone involved. “From road users to planners, educators, and enforcers — we all must work together to end serious road collisions in South Yorkshire.”
Sergeant Duffy urged the public to pay attention this week. “Think about simple changes to your driving. Listen to the advice. One life lost on our roads is one too many. Help us make sure your loved ones always get home safe.”
