REDDITCH schools will benefit from a slice of a £326,000 Government grant towards travel schemes.

Schools have been working with Worcestershire County Council to develop travel plans over the past year and those that submitted an approved scheme by March 31 were awarded grants from the Depart-ment for Education and Skills (DfES).

Trinity and Arrow Vale Community high schools and Astwood Bank, Feckenham, Roman Way, Harry Taylor, Woodrow and Inkberrow first schools will all benefit from the scheme, receiving between £4,000 and £9,615.

Their travel plans are a package of measures aimed at reducing car use and increasing awareness among pupils, staff and parents about the environmental consequences of their travel choice.

They also help parents and carers consider the benefits school travel plans have on a child's safety, health and social life.

The grants will buy items including cycle racks, lockers and CCTV systems.

TravelWise officer Nicky Luff said: "School travel plans are a great way to tackle congestion, not only at the school gate but on all roads and for the benefit of all commuters.

"Reduced traffic around the school helps improve the safety of the children and is better for the environment."