Children wrap up for Slough to Lapland challenge

Energetic children across Slough are competing in a virtual bike race to Santa Claus’s home before he sets off on his Christmas sleigh. Youngsters from various primary schools are attempting to complete the 1,982-mile journey to Lapland within 10 days, as part of a project by Sustrans.

Children have also been roping their parents and teachers into the race, as every mile cycled to and from school counts towards the target. The competition has been organised by Sustrans’ Bike It, which aims to transform the school run by replacing car journeys with cycle rides.

Sustrans Bike It officer Clare Robinson said: “Bike racks have been full to bursting so this race has generated cycling levels far higher than we were hoping for.

“The Pippins School in Slough, for example, only started Bike It in September but is already planning to add extra bike storage space to cope with soaring numbers of pupils arriving by bike.

“Children love cycling for the fun and sense of independence it gives them, but it’s also great for their health and makes them more alert for the day’s school lessons.”

Joining The Pippins School for the race have been Western House School in Slough and Farnham Common Junior School in South Bucks. All three schools exceeded their targets, making 1,285 journeys and 10,317 virtual miles between them. Two more schools will begin their 10-day challenge later this month.

For more information about Sustrans and Bike It visit www.sustrans.org.uk.