YOUNGSTERS at two Bishop Auckland schools have launched a walking bus to help keep them fit and reduce traffic congestion at the school gates.
Children at Woodhouse Close infant and junior schools launched the project on Monday with the help of Sam, Durham County Council's mascot for walking and cycling.
After an assembly at the infant school, in which the children were taught about the health and safety benefits of walking, the youngsters formed a walking bus for their journey home.
The project is supported by Durham County Council's road safety team, teachers, parents and education welfare officers.
It will follow an agreed route every day, stop at pre-arranged bus stops and pick up and drop off pupils on their route to and from school.
Road safety officer Stewart Withycombe said: "Not only do the children arrive at school more alert and ready to learn, but walking also reduces congestion outside school gates and teaches children valuable road safety skills."
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