PARENTS whose youngsters attend a York primary school are being asked to help cut congestion and improve their children's health with a school walking train.

The walking train was set up at Huntington Primary School by parent Wendy Davis, but is currently only operating once a week.

A walking train is formed when children walk to school in a line or "train" with an adult at each end.

Wendy is hoping once parents see the benefits it brings they will be encouraged to help out so it can be extended.

She said: "It is such a good and healthy way to get children to and from school and cut the amount of traffic doing these regular routes."

Wendy believes the walking trains can also help children with their education as they arrive at school awake and ready to go.

She said: "They are getting exercise and get fresh air and will be more alert when they arrive at school."

Wendy has identified three areas to the south of the school where there is a demand for a walking and one is now up-and-running.

There are 17 children taking part in the scheme on Wednesdays with ages ranging from infants to Year Six pupils.

The children wear bright safety tabards which have been donated and each train needs two adults.

She said: "We would also like to include routes to the north of the school as well.

"I am hopeful that we may get more response from parents when they see the train operating to enable us to run it more frequently."

Wendy said: "Sadly without more parental volunteers to run it, it will not develop.

"We are keen to hear from parents, grandparents, or older relatives, who would be able to give just one day, even if it is only the morning or afternoon to help run a train, and what better way to get some exercise."

Anyone who would like to volunteer can contact Wendy through the school or email Hunting.primary@talk21.com or phone 01904 768636.

Updated: 11:57 Wednesday, June 11, 2003