WIRRAL has been revealed as one of the worst areas for road safety for children and cyclists, according to figures from the Green Party.

The data show that accident rates for pedestrians of all ages are 30% above the national average, but for children this rises to 80%.

Last night, Wirral Council’s cabinet member for Streetscene said the authority was currently reviewing areas for possible 20mph speed limits, and that the safety of children and cyclists was a top priority.

The data showing the accident rates was compiled by Living Streets and used the Government's own preferred measure encompassing data over the past three years.

The figures also show that for cyclists the total rate is 15% above the UK average – and for child cyclists the Wirral rate is 48% higher.

The Green Party's Pat Cleary said: "In theory, Wirral is meant to be supporting sustainable travel modes such as walking and cycling.

“In reality, these figures show that Wirral is a very dangerous place to be a pedestrian or a cyclist. The figures for children are truly shocking and will be of real concern to every parent."

He called on the council to create more 20mph zones.

Mr Cleary said: “Even in the 'lowest ever' year of 2008, child figures are poor compared to national standards.”