A GROUP of youngsters got on their bikes yesterday to pick up awards for their efforts in encouraging sustainable transport.

Three schools have been rewarded for developing environmentally friendly school travel plans and have been given the Modeshift STARS award.

Abbey Meads Primary and Red Oaks Primary were given the silver award while Covingham Park Primary got gold, and will became representatives for the South West region.

Yesterday, two of the schools were given their awards by the Mayor Teresa Paige at the civic offices.

Covingham Park has set up a ‘five-minute walk zone’ and a walking bus, and holds eco-breakfasts each term to encourage people to walk, scoot or cycle.

And the school’s site manager has made new scooter storage racks from recycled materials.

Travel Ambassadors have also run ‘Bling your bike’ events and a second-hand bike and scooter auction.

Tony Foss, chairman of governors at Covingham Park, said: “We are absolutely delighted with this award. The children, the staff and the parents have been working very hard to move away from the use of cars.

“The children now walk, use their bikes or scooters to come to school on a regular basis. For us to achieve the gold award is a great feeling.”

Red Oaks has had a focus this year on improving safety on the school site and held a competition to design a poster for display in the car park.

The school also takes part in regular walk-to-school and cycling activities, including the national Big Pedal competition.

And Abbey Meads regularly runs WoW campaigns, encouraging pupils to Walk (or wheel) Once a Week.

Pupils have carried out travel surveys, and the school has run road safety and bike maintenance lessons for all classes.

Swindon Council is also running a number of events next week in partnership with Specsavers Swindon to mark International Walk to School Month.

A number of schools are taking part in a mass walk to school each morning, which will see parents, staff and children all involved.

To find out more about the Modeshift STARS scheme visit www.modeshiftstars.org