A PRIMARY school is going the extra mile in promoting a healthier lifestyle for its pupils.

The Gates Primary in Westhoughton has had a £10,000 running track installed on the school field — and every day pupils will be running round the track to do their daily mile, with parents.

And parents are invited to join their children during the morning running club.

The track was installed thanks to the Newground Together charity and the Together Housing Group.

The track was formally opened by Chris Green, MP for Bolton West, and the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Lynda Byrne at an opening ceremony.

The idea is to use the track to ensure children are fit and healthy and lead a more active lifestyle to combat the country's obesity crisis.

Ans say specialists the daily mile also helps raise standards in the classroom.

Peter Jordan, Newground Together communities director, said: "We believe this to be a fantastic and fascinating idea and we are really pleased to be able to support it.

"Exercise is hugely important to everyone and this initiative will help to promote a healthier lifestyle while getting families more active.

"We’ll be monitoring this very closely and hopefully we will be able to replicate this project in other schools."

Karen Forshaw, headteacher, said: "At The Gates, we are committed to promoting health and wellbeing for all.

"The Daily Mile Initiative allows us to improve the physical, mental, emotional and social health and wellbeing of our children and staff regardless of age or personal circumstances.

"We believe this is really important to encourage children to adopt healthy habits and enjoy exercise from a young age. Working with Newground it is fabulous that we have been able to make this a reality for our children.

"The children love running each day and we know the running track will benefit many children in years to come."

Chris Green, MP for Bolton West, added: "I was delighted to open The Gates’ new running track for their daily mile running club.

"As a runner myself, I think this is a fantastic initiative and something that the children will really benefit from for years to come."

Cllr Lynda Byrne said: "I’m delighted to be asked to open this running track. This is a great initiative by the school and Together Housing to get the children, teachers and parents taking part in exercise and having fun."