A PRIMARY school in Worcester is the latest to set up a walking bus to encourage parents to leave their cars behind.

St George's Catholic Primary School, Chedworth Drive, launched the scheme last week.

The group of children and parents will take the route from Sabrina Avenue to the school, with everyone being kitted out in high visibility waistcoats for safety.

The walking bus has been set up as part of Worcestershire County Council's school travel plan, which the school is developing in a bid to cut down congestion around the school.

The children and parents will also benefit from the exercise before school starts.

Councillor Derek Prodger, the county council's cabinet member for environment, said: "Walking buses can significantly reduce peak time traffic congestion and allow children to enjoy valuable exercise and the opportunity to socialise out of school hours. I wish St George's the very best of luck with its walking bus and hope it is a great success."

Deputy headteacher at the school Mike Painter said: "We are delighted by the interest and commitment shown by parents and children in helping to set up our first walking bus."

The children will all receive a goodie bag containing a pedometer on the first day of the walking bus.

Claines Primary School, Northwick Manor Infant School and Whittington Primary school are the other Worcester schools with walking buses, with 16 walking buses now in existence throughout the county.

Worcester schools are supported by the Worcester choose how you move project which aims to tackle traffic congestion, reduce car dependency and offer a range of sustainable travel options in Worcester. Full training is given by the county council's road safety team.