AROUND 2,000 children in Dorset are not wearing their seatbelts on the school run, say new figures.

This is despite a record rate of 92 per cent of primary school-aged children now wearing a seatbelt.

The annual survey by Dorset County Council revealed the first improvement of county figures in three years.

It found the number of children using seatbelts was up two per cent from last year.

Dorset County Council's road safety team leader Robert Smith said: "It is encouraging to see an increase again after several years of frustration.

"Although the average wearing rate for all ages is now 89 per cent, the wearing rate for primary school-aged children is now 92 per cent, which is a record."

The survey was conducted at more than 20 sites near to a cross-section of schools across the county.

It was carried out in both rural and urban locations during school-run times.

Mr Smith added: "There is no room for complacency, however.

"Most injuries to children on the roads of Dorset occur while as a passenger in a car, not as a pedestrian or cyclist.

"It only takes a few seconds to check if they are safely strapped in, yet risks are still being taken by a significant number of drivers."

The number of people wearing seatbelts has increased steadily since 1993, when it stood at just 60 per cent.

For the past three years it has remained at 87 per cent despite various initiatives by the council to try and get the belt-up message across.

Dorset County Council cabinet member for transportation Colonel Geoffrey Brierley has made a plea to parents to consider their children's safety.

He said: "It is disappointing to learn that despite all the publicity there are still 2,000 children being taken to school without their seatbelts securely fastened.

"It is a matter of seconds to secure a seatbelt, but is surely better than involvement in an accident and unimaginable circumstances because no belt was being worn at the time. For the sake of your children I urge all parents to take the time to belt up your children."