Families are being invited to take part in the UK’s largest cycling, walking and scooting challenge for schools, which returns in the spring.
Organised by the walking and cycling charity Sustrans, the Big Pedal 2019 takes place from 25 March to 5 April and encourages young people to travel by bike, foot or scooter for their journey to and from school.
In 2018, more than 1,300 schools took part, with participants travelling almost 2.4 million miles – equating to 96 trips around the world.
The theme of this year’s Big Pedal is ‘Travelling around the body’, with pupils learning about the human body and how active travel benefits their health.
Dozens of schools will be closing access roads to motor vehicles in an effort to reduce air pollution while creating an environment in which cycling and walking are ‘safe, convenient and enjoyable’.
Xavier Brice, CEO at Sustrans, said: “The Big Pedal may only run for two weeks but can leave a lasting effect on the way children travel to school by showing parents what’s possible and how easy it can be to leave the car at home for a few extra journeys a week.
“With scores of schools already confirming that they will be closing surrounding streets to cars for this year’s Big Pedal, we are confident that 2019 will be even bigger and better than 2018 and demonstrate how people prioritised streets can create a much more pleasant and safer environment for children and parents to travel.”
Big Pedal 2019 is being backed by Angellica Bell, television, radio presenter and cycling advocate, who took on the ‘Tour de Celeb’ in 2016 where she found her love for cycling.
Angellica Bell said: “I’m delighted to be supporting this year’s Big Pedal. It’s a fantastic way to encourage more children to cycle, walk or scoot– doing wonders for their health and the environment around them.
“I hope as many schools as possible sign up for the challenge and inspire children and families across the UK to get on their feet, scooter or bike for their journey to school.”
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