From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, January 22, 2008

PUPILS at Ide Primary School will be treated to hearty breakfast before setting out on their first walking bus on Friday (25 January).

The children have resolved to kick start the year by getting more exercise and helping the environment. Parents are being urged to avoid congestion in the village by parking at the Twisted Oak pub, by kind permission of the landlord, Chris Gillard.

The walking bus, organised by parent Trevor Gardner, will leave from the Twisted Oak each morning and return again each afternoon.

To mark the official launch, Twisted Oak landlord Chris will lay on a fortifying breakfast from 8:15am for all those joining the walking bus.

Helen Tate, Headteacher at Ide Primary School, said: "The Walking Bus is such a brilliant idea for Ide. The High Street becomes quite congested with traffic in the mornings and so anything which encourages parents to leave their cars outside of the village helps improve safety. It also promotes a healthier lifestyle for the pupils. We are very grateful to Trevor Gardner and The Twisted Oak pub for their great practical support in organising our walking bus."

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "This welcome provision of car parking is a marvellous example of a community getting involved in supporting initiatives that help improve children's health, reduce obesity, help combat congestion and reduce CO₂ emissions. The walking bus gives children the pleasurable experience of walking to school with their friends."

Councillor Brian Berman, Devon County Councillor for Exminster and Kenton, said: "Congratulations to all who have helped organise this walking bus; Trevor Gardner, all the parents and pupils and to the brilliant help from the Twisted Oak. I hope the children find it much nicer to start the day by walking to school with their friends, and also getting some fresh air and exercise before going into school. Good luck and best wishes to all of you."

Notes for Editors:

Media representatives are invited to a photo opportunity at the Twisted Oak, Ide, at 8:15am on Friday 25 January to see the children have breakfast and set off on the walking bus at 8:35am.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, 01297 680384.

Councillor Brian Berman, 01626 891871.