Flyer advertising the High Visibility Bands

Starwalker Bands

The “Starwalker Project” is an outstanding example of the initiatives under way at Flegg High School in its role as a Business and Enterprise College.  Holly Hancock, a 15-year-old pupil, was researching safety issues for a local competition when she discovered that road accidents involving children had been greatly reduced in Switzerland by the use of high visibility wear.  She also found that in 2003, nearly 1,700 children aged 11 and under were killed or seriously injured in UK road traffic accidents, many of them during journeys to and from school.  She saw an opportunity to design a product appealing to children which would keep them safer, and by encouraging them to walk to school would make them healthier and reduce the congestion caused by short car journeys.  The Starwalker Band was the result.

Her next step was to approach Anthony Wright, MP for Great Yarmouth, who was enthusiastic and enlisted the support of David Jamieson, the Road Safety Minister.  A local firm, Meltemi Company Clothing Ltd., agreed to help develop the project commercially. Market research showed that 93% of primary school children liked the Starwalker and were keen to wear it.  It was registered and tested, and was granted a CE mark in December 2004.  The “Starwalker Band” was officially launched by the Minister in February 2005, and is marketed by Meltemi on Flegg High’s behalf with a contribution from all sales offered to education. 

Gilly Craig-Jarrold, Meltemi’s marketing manager, says:  “We are delighted to work with Flegg High School and contribute our expertise in clothing design and marketing to nurseries and schools.  This is a truly worthwhile community project, and together we can make a significant difference to road safety.  The product, which is fluorescent and reflective, is effective both in daylight and in the dark.  It is a great idea and has proved to have real appeal to children.”

Mr. Wright also spoke to the Press before the launch.  “I was first approached by Holly at one of my advice surgeries in Martham to ask for my support for the “Be Safe, Be Seen” road safety campaign, and was really impressed by the initiative being shown not only by Holly but by Flegg High School.  Equally, when I approached the Minister, he had no hesitation in meeting with them in London to see at first hand what they were doing.  I am delighted that David is visiting Flegg to help Holly and the Meltemi company with the launch of the Starwalker project.”

Prior to a nationwide launch, Starwalker is being piloted in the East of England, and primary schools, nurseries and youth groups are being contacted to request their support.  In addition, businesses can sponsor their local school.  A school pack is available to promote Starwalker to parents and children, together with a lesson plan on visibilty.  Starwalker Bands are available through participating schools and groups,  which receive a bulk purchase discount on the retail price of £5.25.  Please contact Meltemi Company Clothing Ltd. on 0870 787 1761.