Bid to turn school run into a walk

A NEW scheme has been launched to encourage children and parents in Midlothian to walk or cycle between home and school.

Pupils who register for the scheme will receive a reward card with 50 boxes, and every time they walk or cycle to or from school it will be signed by a teacher or parent. Pupils filling in all 50 boxes will receive a voucher offering discounts to local leisure facilities.

Midlothian spokesman on education and communities, Councillor Peter Boyes, said: "The council aims to encourage active travel to school and our new Walk & Win scheme will support active lifestyles while reducing car congestion and pollution outside schools. I encourage everyone to take part in the scheme – it's a great way to stay healthy and there are some really great rewards on offer."

The scheme follows the Walk to School week held recently in Midlothian to encourage exercise among pupils. There is no official start or end date, to allow children as much time as possible to fill their reward card.

For more information contact Gillian Bathgate on 0131-271 3660 or e-mail: [email protected]