Bolton pupils all set to walk to school

12:34pm Friday 16th May 2008

CHILDREN from more than 60 primary schools in Bolton will be putting their best foot forward to mark National Walk to School Week.

Starting on Monday, the event will encourage more children and their parents to leave their car in the driveway.

Studies show that exercise, like walking to school, helps children be more alert in the classroom, as well as helping reduce pollution and congestion, particularly outside schools.

All children who take part in the initiative will be given an individual Walk to School passport to log the number of days they have walked to school.

Their efforts will be rewarded with a special certificate, presented at the end of the week.

Walk to School week is one of a number of initiatives organised by Bolton Council's School Travel Advisor throughout the year.

A number of schools already have Walking Buses, where children meet every morning and walk to school together.

Bolton Council's Executive Member for Development Cllr Ebrahim Adia said: "Not only is walking to school great for the health of children and the environment but it encourages social interaction, can be fun and gives children a chance to learn more about road safety.

"I'd urge parents to ensure their children get involved in Walk to School Week and find out how they can work with the schools to make it a regular part of their weekly routine."

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