SCHOOLCHILDREN set out on a walking challenge as part of a campaign to get pupils more active.

Students from Glendene Arts Academy, in Easington Colliery, walked from school through the village to Welfare Park.

Those who showed good road safety knowledge and consideration to other pedestrians are in the chance to win a prize.

The Free Your Feet challenge was devised by national charity Living Streets, which has been working with the school’s student council on the project.

Project manager Shruti Jain said: “Glendene is a Special Educational Needs school for children aged two to 19 years.

“The students here have a range of learning difficulties, sensory impairments or physical difficulties and for most it’s not practicable for them to walk to school.

“The led-walk means everyone will have an opportunity to take part and enjoy some fresh air and the health benefits of walking.’

Craig Platt, acting leader of Glendene Academy, added: “The challenge is a simple and effective whole-school walking challenge for secondary age pupils which our Student Council has been planning with Shruti since April.

“We hope it inspired them to continue walking after the challenge and make if part of their everyday life.”