Cyclists and motorists are being urged to give each other respect in the summer months.

The Stewartry’s scenic back roads are seeing a higher volume of traffic due to the pandemic and people enjoying a staycation.

That’s brought more tourists in cars to the region as well as cyclists, while there are also more delivery vans and farming vehicles due to the seasonal nature of the industry.

Dee and Glenkens Councillor Pauline Drysdale is now asking road users to be respectful to each after constituents got in touch regarding two serious incidents in the region involving vehicles and experienced local cyclists.

She said: “People are asking me to raise awareness of road safety as there are so many more people using our roads. Drivers of all types please be aware of our local and visiting cyclists as people are incredibly vulnerable when on a bike. Conversely, cyclists please also be alert as to other road users and respect that they have rights as well. Wear hi-vis on the darker and duller days and of course always wear a helmet.

“Finally, to contractors and those driving farm vehicles or machinery, I am being asked to remind you to adhere to the speed limits, especially in our villages and through the night in order to avoid disruption to residents.”

Her views were backed by Esther Tacke, of Rhonehouse- based Galloway Cycling Holidays, who said: “We need to respect each other as we share the road.

“Cars need to slow down when they see cyclists but cyclists also ought to single up when it is hard for vehicles of all sizes to overtake on our narrower country roads.

“It’s important to find the time to be patient and to physically acknowledge and thank all road users for being respectful.”

And farmer Kenneth Campbell, from nearby Slagnaw, added: “For farmers the season is short and we have limited time to silage within the drier periods.

“Our contractors and drivers are always made aware as to other road users and they always act with respect, day and night.

“But it’s always most helpful and much appreciated when we are under pressure and cyclists move into single file or move over when we need to get on with our work.”