One of the perks of living in Cumbria is not having to deal with some of the issues that are evident in big cities.

Sky-high crime rates, terrible traffic jams, and air pollution can make some of the larger cities in the UK unlivable.

Although these problems may be less impactful this far north, we still have to deal with them.

Which is why the news that pupils and their teachers from local primary schools are raising awareness of the damage that engine emissions can cause is so welcome. As reported in The Mail on page six, pupils from Furness Academy, St Pius X, Ramsden Infants and Newton Primary School have been out and about conducting traffic surveys, hosting special assemblies and asking drivers to sign a 'no idling' pledge. It's exciting to see youngsters taking an interest in not just the environment, but of issues which directly concern them.

Anyone who has ever been on a school run will have seen the masses of cars and 4x4s which turn up outside of schools every morning, as people look to save time and avoid a cold walk.

The damage these emissions could cause developing lungs needs to be at the forefront of commuter's minds, so good on those pupils and teachers who are making a difference.

And to our readers - maybe think twice before hopping in the car: a walk might do you good.