Bridgwater children encouraged to bike to school (From This is The West Country)

Bridgwater children encouraged to bike to school

12:00pm Saturday 2nd March 2013 in Somerset By Kirsty James

CHILDREN at Somerset Bridge Primary School in Bridgwater received a free healthy breakfast after taking part in a biking to school scheme.

The breakfast was organised by the charity Sustrans as part of its ‘Bike It Plus’ project, which is now running in six schools in the Bridgwater area.

Sustrans is working with schools to provide children with the skill and knowledge to be more active on their journey to school on a regular basis.

Ian Winstanley, Sustrans ‘Bike It Plus’ officer for Bridgwater, said: “Somerset Bridge was the first school to sign up to the project.

“It was great to see so many pupils and parents leave the car behind and arrive at school under their own steam.

“Cycling, scooting and walking to school is a tremendous way for children to get the exercise they need every day to keep healthy, and research shows it allows them to become better students in the classroom. Let’s not forget - it’s fun, too.”

Somerset Bridge Head Teacher, Kevin Bryant said he was delighted the school is working with Sustrans.

He added: “I am sure the ‘Bike it Breakfast’ will be the first of many successful events aimed at encouraging children, parents and staff to think about their environment and healthier ways to get to school.”

Sustrans’ work in Bridgwater is fully funded and supported by Somerset County Council, through their Local Sustainable Transport Fund bid.

If any Bridgwater schools are interested in the project, call Ian Winstanley on 01278-435764.