Schoolchildren ‘leg it to Lapland’ to reduce car use

Over 5,000 children from 20 primary schools in Devon will be collecting ‘leg miles’ when they walk or cycle to and from school, to try and be the first to travel 2,100 miles, the equivalent distance from Devon to Lapland.

The challenge starts today (November 25) and runs for two weeks. Schools can earn extra miles by taking part in activities during the school day.

The challenge aims to decrease the number of cars used on the school run and is organised by the charity Sustrans, as part of the Active Travel to School Project funded by Devon County Council through the Access Fund.

The winning schools will receive a visit from Andrei Burton, the UK’s premiere mountain bike trials rider and skateboard and scooter lessons from the Wheeled Sports Academy.

Santa visiting a school in Devon

Helen Morse, one of three Sustrans Active Travel Officers in Devon, said: ‘The challenge has been running for four years now and every year we’ve seen an increase in the number of schools taking part.

‘At this time of year people tend to use their cars more, so the challenge provides a fun way to encourage everyone to travel to school in an active way. It helps to reduce congestion around the school gates, improve air quality and build exercise into the daily routine.’

More information is available on the Sustrans South Facebook page or on Twitter follow @SustransDevon