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Sustrans has enlisted TV presenter and cycling mum Kirsty Gallacher to help encourage parents to ditch the car and join The Big Pedal 2013 competition.
The competition encourages kids, parents and teachers across the UK to leave the car at home and get on their bikes for the school run between 28 February and 20 March as part of The Big Pedal.
Nearly half of all children want to be able to get to school by bike but only four per cent actually do.
Last year over 950 schools took part, from Cornwall to the Highlands, Belfast to East Anglia. The combined efforts of children all over the country travelled a total of 1,140,075 miles saving 59,021 gallons of fuel and £368,484.
Gallacher said: “Cycling the school run is a great way for kids and parents to get active and have some fun together. Sustrans’ Big Pedal competition is the perfect opportunity to give it a go!"
Sustrans Chief Executive Malcolm Shepherd said: “The average primary school journey is just 1.5 miles – the perfect distance to walk or cycle. Every year The Big Pedal helps tens of thousands of families rediscover the fun and freedom of cycling to school, get fit and save money at the same time.
“Evidence shows how children that cycle to school regularly are more active and better learners – it’s time for us all to get on our bikes!”
