Primary school pupils from across the borough are taking to their feet as part of National Walk to School week this week.

Walk to School Week is part of a national campaign celebrating the benefits of walking and this dedicated week is the perfect time to give walking a go.

Dudley Council’s road safety and travel awareness team is co-ordinating the week in a bid to encourage both children and adults to find a more sustainable way to travel.

All primary schools in the borough have been sent resources to help and encourage their pupils to find an alternative way of travelling to school, whether on foot, by cycling, or by ‘park and striding’ their way to school. Each class has received a pack appropriate to their age.

Every pupil has an activity diary focusing on the benefits of walking, and every day children walk they get a sticker to put on the class chart. At the end of the week every pupil who walked at least part of their journey is rewarded with a pack of sunflower seeds. Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for environmental services, said:

“Walking to school helps to reduce pollution and congestion levels and teaches children vital road safety skills. This campaign also reminds parents and children of the health benefits that can come from utilising active travel whenever possible.”