PUPILS at a York school have won an award for their efforts in getting children walking, cycling and scooting to school.

Archbishop Junior School were named the winner of York's annual Walk to School Week challenge, logging the most journeys on foot, bike or scooter out of the 25 schools which took part.

The school appointed six Year 4 pupils as a Junior Travel Team, who held talks and assemblies to encourage their fellow students not to be dropped off in the 'lazy bones zones' outside schools, and promoted other modes of transport, including the ‘park and stride’ zones set up in the village.

Jessica Berg, eight, said: "We discuss ways to get people cycling, walking or scooting to school, like putting a golden lock around someone’s handlebars which means they get a prize and a travel teddy."

Headteacher Jonathan Green also ditched his car in favour of cycling to school in recent months, and said: "Reducing the number of cars on the roads around our schools is really important to us, as it keeps our children healthier and safer.

"So it is great to finally win the Jack Archer Award. Our children and staff have put a lot of work into changing people’s behaviour not just for one week, but for life."

The school received the Jack Archer Award, and £200 towards sports equipment, and was followed by runners up Carr Junior and Dringhouses Primary.

Cllr Ian Gillies, Executive Member for Transport and Planning, said: "Congratulations to Archbishop Junior, and all the schools who took part in this year’s Walk to School Week. It is a great opportunity for pupils, parents and carers to look at the way they travel to school and the benefits that walking can bring, such as pupils being more alert in the classroom."