Ref. 30933-31THE journey to and from school means lots of fresh air and fun for youngsters at Even Infants School in Swindon.

Fifty-five children walked a special route from the school up Rodbourne Road to the Outlet Village yesterday to celebrate the first birthday of the school's walking bus.

They were also taking part in a record-breaking attempt organised by road safety charity Brake, which saw schools across the country simultaneously take part in short walking buses.

The safe and healthy alternative to the school-run has proved such a success at Even that there are moves to extend it to the junior school too.

Mum-of-two Jo Vizor, who co-ordinates the walking bus, said: "They had a great time.

"Walking to school in the morning is important.

"They can wake themselves up, stretch their legs, have bit of a chat and get ready for a busy day at school.

"And it means there are less cars outside the school gates."

She appealed to motorists to be patient because it takes a few extra seconds for the train of youngsters to cross the road.