The spring national traffic safety campaign started on the 11th. In Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture, the creator of the popular manga "Wimp Pedal" urged people to wear helmets.
The event was attended by about 300 people, including police officers and city officials. According to the police, six people had died in bicycle traffic accidents by the end of last month, and none of them were wearing helmets. For confidential support call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org.