Rustington pupils set a brisk pace for ‘Big Walk’

Around 60 pupils from Summerlea Primary School, in Windsor Drive, wrapped up in their coats to join in with the school’s second, Big Walk event, on Thursday (May 23), as part of the National Walk To School Week.

The youngsters, accompanied by around 30 other people, including members of Littlehampton District Lions’ Club, officers from Sussex Police and school staff, began their one-mile jaunt from the Woodland Centre, in Woodlands Avenue.

The band of walkers trekked along the recreation field and into Jubilee Avenue, before turning west along Worthing Road and arriving at the school around 20 minutes later.

School receptionist Niki Barnes, took part in the walk. She said: “Everyone was in a really jolly mood. It was pretty chilly to start off with even though the sun was shining. But once everyone got moving they soon warmed up.”

Walk to school week began last Monday and finished on Friday.

Summerlea’s head teacher Jane Blackman said she prided herself in encouraging pupils and their families to take part in the stroll.

Mrs Blackman explained: “We have always taken part in the annual walk to school week and we have always been keen to promote walking to school as a better alternative to driving.

“We understand parents live increasingly busy lives and need to drop-off their children but walking to school isn’t only great exercise but it’s a brilliant way for children to socialise.”

The event was organised by community liaison manager Sara Hopkins and the school’s pupil-lead Travel Team.