West Mercia Police launch ‘Operation Dark Night’ to keep roads safe this Winter

West Mercia Police have launched a major road safety initiative aimed at protecting vulnerable road users as the darker months approach.

Operation Dark Night, which runs from 27 October to 7 November, will focus on improving safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire.

The campaign, coordinated nationally by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), highlights the shared responsibility of all road users to keep the region’s roads safe. It forms part of Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion’s West Mercia Safer Communities Plan, which places road safety at its core.

Statistics show that cyclists and pedestrians are involved in more collisions per billion miles travelled than any other group. Police say that reduced visibility during the darker months increases the risk of incidents, particularly where motorists fail to see other road users at junctions or while overtaking.

Motorists are being urged to take extra care and ensure their eyesight and vehicle lighting are roadworthy. Officers warn that driving with uncorrected defective vision could lead to a £1,000 fine, three penalty points, and even disqualification.

Cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders are also being reminded to make themselves visible by wearing high-visibility clothing and using reflective materials. Cyclists must ensure their bikes have working front and rear lights, while pedestrians are advised to use designated crossings, especially on school routes.

Throughout the campaign, West Mercia officers will be visible at key locations offering road safety advice and distributing high-vis materials and bike lights.

Superintendent Stuart Bill of West Mercia Police said: “With people embracing sustainable forms of transport, it’s more important than ever for all road users to think about their presence and the impact they have. We’re urging motorists to take extra care, and encouraging cyclists and pedestrians to think about how visible they are.”

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion added: “Too much harm is caused on West Mercia’s roads, and I’m committed to reducing that through enforcement, engineering, and education. As the darker nights approach, it’s vital that all road users take care and ensure they can be seen — whether that’s by checking lights, wearing reflective clothing, or having your eyesight tested.”

West Mercia Police say the message is simple: “See and be seen” — because everyone has the right to travel safely on the region’s roads.