Living Streets’ Walk to School Week is over for another year and I’d like to thank everyone in Cumbria who made it such a success!

More than 10,000 pupils from 54 Cumbria schools joined pupils across the UK to enjoy the many benefits of walking to school.

Walking to school not only improves air quality but is a great way for children to build exercise into their daily lives, helping them arrive at school healthier, happier and ready to learn.

Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking, wants to create a nation where walking is the natural choice for everyday, local journeys; free from congested roads and pollution, reducing the risk of preventable illnesses and social isolation.

We want to achieve a better walking environment and to inspire people of all generations to enjoy the benefits the simple act of walking brings.

For 90 years we’ve been a beacon for walking. In our early days, our campaigning led to the UK’s first zebra crossings and speed limits. Now our campaigns and local projects deliver real change to overcome barriers to walking.

Motor vehicles are the biggest source of air pollution and one in four cars on the road at peak times are on the school run. More children walking to school means fewer cars on the road, less congestion and idling, and better air quality for all.

Families in Cumbria have been part of the solution this Walk to School Week by swapping four wheels for two feet. We hope they will be inspired to walk to school all year round!

MARY CREAGH,

Chief Executive, Living Streets