Thousands of Ealing children are signing up to a challenge to walk to school this May.

From 14 to 25 May, pupils at more than 60 primary schools in the borough will take part in the challenge to walk, scoot or cycle to class. Each child will receive a specially designed bookmark which will be stamped each day they take part in the challenge. The initiative, which launches during national walking month, is to encourage more families to get to school in an active way instead of driving.

Walk to school bookmark

Children are also designing an active travel-themed bookmark for use in the next walking challenge, later in the year.

The children who draw the winning design for their school will receive a Halfords voucher and be put forward for the borough-wide final. The overall winner will get a mini-pod bike and scooter storage for their school, plus a £50 voucher to spend on bike or scooter accessories.

Councillor Bassam Mahfouz, cabinet member for transport, environment and leisure, said: “There are so many benefits to walking to school instead of jumping in the car. Exercise is so important for kids and we know that when they walk, scoot or cycle to school they arrive refreshed, invigorated and ready to learn.

“It’s a great way to help make sure they get the right amount of exercise each day and can help parents to be more active too. Making fewer car journeys also helps air quality and reduces congestion, making our streets nicer places to be. I hope lots of parents will be stepping up to the challenge.”

Children (pictured) from the Holy Family Catholic Primary School in Acton have been getting ready for the challenge.