The dark nights make conditions more difficult for drivers, and town centre opticians Specsavers want to make sure they have had up-to-date eye tests.

After reading about the Gazette's Safely Home Campaign, to highlight road safety, the King Street shop is offering 220 half-price vouchers to the first taxi drivers who call in and show their badge.

Our campaign has the backing of families of road traffic victims Anthony Shepherd, Daniel Arnold, Pamela Phinn, Keith Wealands and Paula Gilbert.

It is also supported by South Tyneside police, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, North East Ambulance Service, South Tyneside Council and Road Respect.

The campaign calls for motorists to think twice before getting behind the wheel of a vehicle while drunk or on drugs, using a mobile phone while driving, speeding or taking a defective vehicle out on the road.

Gail Miles, of Specsavers, said: "We had a number of vouchers to give away and, after reading of the Safely Home campaign in the Gazette, we thought making them available to taxi drivers would be a good idea.

During the winter season, they drive for longer hours in the dark, and these vouchers will prompt them to have an up-to-date eye test."

The vouchers will remain valid until February 29.

Coun Michael Clare, lead member for environment, housing and transport, said: "We welcome any initiative that will help to improve road safety.

"Good vision is essential when driving plays a central role in your job.

"All our taxi drivers must pass an eye test as part of a medical examination they are given before being issued with a licence.

"They must also undergo medical examinations at ages 50, 55, 60, 65 and every year thereafter."