Students hear powerful testimony about real-life consequences of dangerous driving
A POWERFUL road safety event aimed at educating young people about the dangers of risky driving has been held at Ysgol Brynhyfryd in Ruthin.
The event, held on February 26, brought together emergency services, community leaders and students to highlight the real-world consequences of dangerous behaviour behind the wheel.
Organised by assistant headteacher Carl Murray, Sergeant Duncan Logan of North Wales Police, and Pat Astbury, chairman of the North Wales Police and Crime Panel, the day focused on the risks facing young drivers and the choices that can lead to serious or fatal collisions.
Remembering a former pupil
At the heart of the event was the story of former pupil Olivia Alkir, who died in a high-speed collision in 2019 while travelling as a passenger in a car.
Her mother, Jo Alkir, spoke to students about the devastating impact the tragedy had on her family and the wider community.
Students were also shown dashcam footage from the collision and heard presentations from the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Sergeant Logan and magistrate Tony Gatley, who all spoke about the serious consequences of careless and dangerous driving.
The event highlighted the so-called “Fatal Five” causes of serious road collisions: speeding, dangerous or careless driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, mobile phone distraction, and drink or drug driving.
These factors remain a key priority within the road safety strategy of Andy Dunbobbin, the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office.
Changing attitudes
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Wayne Jones attended the event and praised the school for hosting the initiative.
“It was a pleasure to visit Ysgol Brynhyfryd and see the engagement of students taking part in this important road safety initiative,” he said.
“Educating young people about the risks on our roads is crucial in preventing serious injuries and saving lives.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin added that hearing the story behind a tragedy can help young people understand the real consequences of their decisions.
“Olivia’s story is heartbreaking, and I am grateful to Jo for her courage in sharing it,” he said.
“If even one young driver makes a safer choice because of what they heard today, this work will have saved a life.”
Powerful message for students
Sergeant Duncan Logan, who has more than 26 years’ experience in roads policing, told students the event was about encouraging responsibility and preventing future tragedies.
“I’ve knocked on too many doors and pulled too many young people from vehicles over the years,” he said.
“A driving licence comes with huge responsibility. You are responsible for everyone else on the road, not just yourself.”
Students who attended the event said the experience left a lasting impression.
One student said hearing a voice recording of Jo Alkir asking her daughter to stay alive during the aftermath of the crash made the tragedy feel real and changed how they would think about driving in the future.
Another said the day helped them understand how road collisions affect not only those involved but also families, emergency services and entire communities.
The Police and Crime Commissioner’s office continues to work with schools, local authorities and road safety partners such as GoSafe to promote safer driving and prevent serious incidents across North Wales.
