Lorry drivers have been reminded of the importance of being vigilant when turning left, as this is a potentially dangerous manoeuvre when cyclists are coming up the inside lane.

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) issued the message to coincide with the government's latest cycling safety campaign, which warned riders of the dangers of getting too close to the fronts of lorries at junctions.

It is urging riders to stay back, as if they sneak up the inside they will be venturing into the driver's blind spot and might not be seen in time.

The campaign has been launched in response to research showing a third of crashes involving HGVs and cyclists occur at left turns, while many riders wrongly believe the blind spot area is a safe place to be.

Head of national and regional policy at the FTA Chris Snelling emphasised how important it is that bikers and drivers alike are aware of the dangers that can occur at left turns.

He said: "This DfT campaign highlights one of the key danger zones – the blind spot at the front left of an HGV. New design innovations such as transparent cab doors all have a part to play in improving safety in the long term but increased awareness can have immediate impact."

The government campaign runs until October 23rd and features a video and posters depicting a crash.

It is being focused chiefly on London and Manchester, the two cities where the greatest number of accidents involving bikes and lorries occur.

While the FTA is keen to make sure lorry drivers do what they can to be as safe as possible, some cycling campaigners are unhappy with the safety campaign, claiming it is placing the blame on riders for accidents at left turns and under-emphasising the role played by drivers in such cases.