WEST Somerset police have offered students the chance to get lights on their bikes at reduced cost to stay within the law.

Minehead's police chief has warned: "We will be stepping up our patrols and will fine all those without lights."

But Insp Keith Bridges has offered West Somerset Community College students a 10% discount on the cost of lights through a number of listed local suppliers.

In a letter to students delivered with the college news sheet he says: "Riding without lights and on footpaths causes danger and complaints.

"The danger is very real to pedestrians, drivers as well as the rider.

If a rider can't be seen the chances of getting knocked off are much greater."

And he warned that offenders could be issued with a £30 fixed penalty.

"It would be much cheaper to get some lights," he said.

Students can take the letter to participating retailers to get the discount.

Taking part in the scheme are Albert Hardware, Watchet; Motorline, Williton (free fitting only);Pompey's, Mart Road, Minehead; P&S Motorsport, Summerland Road, Minehead; and Lance Nicholson, Dulverton.