PUPILS at eight schools will be following in the wheels of more than 110,000 children as they take to the roads.

They are taking part in the long-running project by Sustrans charity funded by iTravel York to reduce the car school run in the city.

Since 2009, more than 110,000 children in 40 schools around the city have taken part in the scheme.

Erin Gray, Sustrans active travel officer in York said: “We’ve been working in York schools now for eight years so it’s fantastic to see more children getting on their bikes or feet for their daily commute. Walking and cycling is a great way for children and parents to boost their activity levels and have some fun in process.”

The charity says that at participating schools, the average percentage of children travelling to school by foot, bike or scooter increases by 7.3 per cent to 77.6 per cent.

The schools currently taking part are Carr Junior School, Haxby Road Primary Academy, Robert Wilkinson Primary Academy, St. Oswald’s CE Primary School, St. Barnabas CE Primary School, Acomb Primary School, Poppleton Ousebank Primary School and St. Wilfrid’s RC Primary School.

Sustrans has also issued tips for parents of children on wheels.

1) plan the route in advance to avoid hills and busy roads.

2) make sure their bikes are the right size and roadworthy and scooters are safe to ride.

3) wear sensible shoes such as trainers and not flip flops or sandals.

4) don't wear baggy clothes

5) don't hang bags on the handlebars

6) a single adult riding with children should ride behind them and two adults should ride one in front and one behind the children.

7) adults should set a good example by teaching and following the Highway Code.

8) children on scooters should be on the inside of an adult, go slowly and keep out of other pedestrians' way.

9) don't ride scooters when crossing roads.

10) helmets are recommended.