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Over 1,000 schools are signed up to the Big Pedal, the annual event in which schools across the length and breadth of the UK compete to see which can clock the most miles cycled.
Delivered by charity Sustrans and funded by Bike Hub, the Big Pedal 2013 will see thousands of families ditch the car and do the school run by bike or scooter between 28 February and 20 March. Parents and schools wishing to take part can still register by visiting www.bigpedal.org.uk.
Phillip Darnton of Bike Hub, said: “Riding a bike to school is something most children would love to do – so the Big Pedal is the perfect way to get started. At school you can learn to ride safely with Bikeability training, available nationally. Almost one million ten year olds have done it so far, so why not join all your friends for the Big Pedal to make your school a cycling champion school.”
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 totalled a massive 1,140,075 miles, saving 59,021 gallons of fuel and £368,484.
Malcolm Shepherd, Sustrans Chief Executive, 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!”
How The Big Pedal Works
Every journey to school by bike or scooter powers a school round a virtual UK stage race. There are some great prizes to be won once again for those schools which raise their game, from bike storage to cycle stunt displays.
Schools will also be raising money for Sustrans on 28 February with a Superheroes Day, when pupils donate £1 to Sustrans to dress up as their favourite Superhero.
