YOUNGSTERS at a County Durham primary school have succeeded in creating a car-free zone outside the building.

Children at Ludworth Primary School, near Durham, encouraged parents and carers to walk to and from school, resulting in a dramatic reduction in the number of vehicles parked outside school gates at the start and end of the day.

On Friday, September 23, they will show off their campaign to Durham City MP Roberta Blackman-Woods and Sam, the county council's larger-than-life mascot for walking and cycling.

Two large banners, produced from artwork by key stage one and two pupils, are a major feature of the campaign. They urge parents to "Leave the car - It's not far" and "Keep us safe - Park with care".

The school has worked in partnership with the county council's school travel planning team to develop a school travel plan, which encourages walking, cycling and using public transport for the daily school run.

Parents who need to drive are encouraged to leave their vehicle at the local community centre and walk to school, or drop off pupils away from the school gates to avoid creating congestion.

Pupils who live within walking distance are encouraged to walk to and from school.

Mrs Blackman-Woods said: "It's great to see the hard work that children and teachers have put into these banners.

"Encouraging young people to walk to school is important in cutting congestion on our roads, making our streets safer from traffic and protecting our environment.

"This is a great example of the local community working together with our schools, councils and the Government to make things better for everyone."

Headteacher Barrie Ivil said: "All the pupils arrive at school feeling brighter and more alert as a result of their regular daily exercise."

The county council has this year submitted 53 school travel plans to the Department for Transport and the Department for Education and Skills and each school will share in £500,000.

Primary schools in the scheme will receive £3,750 plus £5 per pupil, while secondary schools will receive £5,000 and £5 per pupil.