Ref: PR1780
Date: 13/05/08

Little feet in schools across Wakefield are getting ready for the start of Walk to School week which runs this year from 19-23 May.

It is part of national initiative to boost pupil health and cut pollution from short car journeys by encouraging more children to walk to school.

All children taking part will get a card and stickers for taking part with a reward at the end of the week for their efforts.

Walking buses will run at five schools, where up to 1500 pupils will get the chance to take part in 'Park and Stride' schemes. Simmo the Clown will walk with children throughout the week to add some extra fun at:-

• Flanshaw Junior and Infant - Monday
• Sandal Endowed - Tuesday
• Flanshaw St Michael - Wednesday
• Kirkhamgate - Thursday
• Normanton Common - Friday

At Normanton Common pupils and teachers are holding carnival style activities throughout the week to boost the number of children taking part.

Council Leader Peter Box said: "Getting fresh air and exercise is a great way to start the day and the Council supports Walk to School Week as a simple and effective way of encouraging children to get active. By becoming involved pupils also will become more aware of the health benefits of walking and have some fun along the way."