WET weather failed to dampen the spirits of children who were encouraged to walk to school last week.

Pupils from Butterknowle Primary School, near Bishop Auckland, we encouraged to walk to school if they lived near enough.

After the Walk to School Week, two walking buses are now available, supervised by school staff.

The first one at 8am reaches the school in time for the daily Breakfast Club while another, half an hour later arrives in time for the start of school.

Starting at the top of the village, the walking convoy of children, parents and staff picks up at the doctors surgery car park, before continuing to school.

Headteacher Paul Ruane said: "We realise that in a rural area, not all children can walk to schools, but we are raising awareness amongst children that reducing car use is important. "And the benefits of walking are not only physical - the walk to school can be an opportunity to chat with others and engage with the environment."

One of the users of the service, Elanor Copley, said that she usually walks to school, but it was more fun with the bus because there were more people to talk to.