Hundreds of children across Dorset have cycled to school this week as part of a national campaign encouraging more young people to travel by bike.
Cycle to School Week, which runs from 13 to 17 October, is organised by the government-funded Bikeability programme to promote cycling as a healthy and sustainable alternative to car travel.
Dorset Council supports Bikeability across the county by funding free cycle courses for pupils.
Councillor Jon Andrews, Cabinet member for Place, said: “Cycle to School Week is a fantastic initiative and showcases the amazing work Bikeability is providing at our schools. Cycling is a great way to get to school, it’s not only fun and healthy but it’s also helping the environment by reducing the number of cars on our roads.”
Children have been encouraged to make pledges to cycle to school every day this week, or to swap at least one car journey for a bike ride.
Since 2013, Dorset Council has supported Bikeability to deliver training in schools. Last year around 3,000 Dorset pupils took part, and an estimated 25,000 have benefited since the courses began.
Bikeability offers three training levels, from basic playground skills to advanced on-road sessions, helping children stay safe and build confidence on their bikes.
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