THEY put their lives on the line for us in theatres of war, but our troops are putting their own lives at risk on our roads, according to Somerset County Council.

The authority's road safety team is working with partner agencies to keep armed forces personnel safer when driving in the county.

They have come up with an initiative, Survive the Drive, after statistics showed members of the forces have a 62 per cent increased danger of being involved in a collision compared to the general public.

The council has been working with the services in the county for several years to help cut the number of its members killed or injured on Somerset's roads and Survive the Drive aims to increase the scope and scale.

It uses a combination of live speakers discussing their personal experiences of road collisions and video footage involving members of the armed services to examine the 'Fatal 5' biggest dangers to drivers and riders - drink driving, speed, distractions, seat belts and fatigue.

Among partner agencies developing the presentation are SAFE South West, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, Devon County Council, Highways England, MoD (Defence Safety Authority), Think Amy and Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Cllr John Woodman, cabinet member for highways at County Hall, said: "I am delighted that Survive the Drive is being piloted in Somerset.

"We urge all members of the armed forces to take heed of the advice to help them stay safe on the roads and reduce their risk of being involved in a road traffic collision."