Families invited to take on active travel challenge

Families are being invited to take part in Big Pedal 2021, the UK’s largest cycling, walking, wheeling and scooting competition for primary and secondary school children. 

The competition, which is organisaed by the walking and cycling charity Sustrans, will run from 19 to 30 April 2021 and will see young people across the UK compete with one another to make the most journeys by cycling, walking, scooting or using a wheelchair.

The theme of this year’s competition is ‘Amazing Journeys,’ with an aim to encourage pupils to see their local areas from a different perspective and learn about the benefits of active travel. 

With the pandemic resulting in many people spending more time at home, Sustrans is adapting the competition to become more flexible. Children will be able to take part in the competition and supporting activities whether they are travelling to school or learning at home.

Xavier Brice, CEO at Sustrans, said: ‘We’re excited that the Big Pedal is returning for 2021, after what has been a truly difficult year for all, and the need to make time to incorporate physical activity into our daily routines seems important now more than ever.

‘Whilst we don’t know exactly what the rest of 2021 will bring in terms of coronavirus restrictions, we’re delighted pupils will be able to take part, regardless of where they are learning.

‘Active travel has proven its worth over the past year, with more people looking for socially distanced ways to move around and remain active in lockdown. As we look towards life after Covid-19, and schools returning as normal, we hope to see local authorities use the next stage of funding announced in November for cycling and walking to continue to make it easier for families to travel actively to school.

‘More people travelling actively for essential everyday journeys such as the school run means fewer cars on the road, helping to ease congestion and reduce air pollution around school gates.’

For more information visit: www.sustrans.org.uk/family-school-guide

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