London's motorists and cyclists must learn to share the road and get along better to ensure safety for all, London Mayor Ken Livingstone has said.

Share the Road, a safety campaign backed by Transport for London (TfL) and road user organisations, was launched by Mr Livingstone on Monday, September 4, in an effort to encourage all Londoners to stick to the rules of the road.

Police have also been told to crack down on those breaking traffic laws across the capital.

Mr Livingstone said: "Overall London's roads are getting safer.

"But there is nothing more frustrating, and often dangerous, than road users who think the rules do not apply to them."

New research by TfL found one in five London cyclists jump red lights and that motorists stopped in more than a third of advance stop boxes, both of which are against the law.

The number of cyclists on London's roads has increased by 72 per cent since 2000.

Jenny Jones, road safety ambassador for the London Assembly, said: "Share the Road is about mutual respect between all road users.

"We will be asking cyclists to stop at red and we will be asking lorry drivers to give cyclists extra space at junctions. We will be providing more cycle training and we will be clamping down on illegal drivers in London.

"London is finally starting to invest serious money in cycle lanes and cycle training. Cyclists are no longer seen as second class citizens on our roads."

A statement released by London Cycling Campaign and other road groups said: "All Londoners stand to gain from Share the Road thanks to the reduction in congestion and pollution, as well as improved opportunities to travel in ways which are healthy, convenient, enjoyable and affordable."