LOCAL BUSINESS SUPPORTS OVER 1,000 UK SCHOOLS TAKING PART IN THE BIG PEDAL 2013
A Liverpool business, Canopies by Acer, is supporting a national campaign to encourage school children to cycle to work.
Delivered by charity Sustrans and funded by Bike Hub, the Big Pedal 2013 has seen thousands of families ditch the car and do the school run by bike or scooter since launch last month.
Schools across Merseyside have been encouraging pupils, parents and staff to cycle and scoot to school each day. The more that take part, the faster the school will complete each stage of the race.
The competition is weighted according to the size of the school, so everyone has a fair chance to win. There are a number of categories offering prizes donated by a range of companies.
The Speke based company is donating a bespoke Carolina cycle shelter, with parking for up to 10 bikes, to the winning school in the secondary category.
Alan Ewan, Managing Director of Canopies by Acer, said: “We have worked with many schools across Merseyside to make it easier for the children to cycle to school by installing bespoke bike shelters. We wanted to support The Big Pedal and enable more children to discover the fun and freedom of cycling to school, get fit and save money at the same time.
“The average primary school journey is just 1.5 miles – the perfect distance to walk or cycle, whilst evidence shows how children that cycle to school regularly are more active and better learners.”
Nearly half of all children want to be able to get to school by bike but only four per cent actually do. The Big Pedal shows children and parents just how easy it is to get around on two wheels.
Phillip Darnton for Bike Hub, said: “Riding a bike to school is something most children would love to do – so the Big Pedal is the perfect way to get started. At school you can learn to ride safely with Bikeability training, available nationally. Almost one million 10 year olds have done it so far, so why not join all your friends for the Big Pedal to make your school a cycling champion school.”
Last year over 950 schools took part, from Cornwall to the Highlands, Belfast to East Anglia. The combined efforts of children all over the country totalled a massive 1,140,075 miles, saving 59,021 gallons of fuel and £368,484.
There is still time to get involved, with the last leg of the initiative taking place on the 20th March. Parents and schools wishing to take part can still register by visiting www.bigpedal.org.uk
How The Big Pedal Works
Every journey to school by bike or scooter powers a school round a virtual UK stage race. There are some great prizes to be won once again, from bike storage to cycle stunt displays.
Schools also raised money for Sustrans on 28 February with a Superheroes Day, when pupils donated £1 to Sustrans to dress up as their favourite Superhero.
The race is funded by the Bike Hub and powered by Sustrans.
The Big Pedal Facts & Resources
Benefits of Cycling to School
Reduces traffic congestion around school gates
Can lead to improved academic performance
Helps children develop independence
Increases levels of physical activity
It’s sustainable and cheap
It’s fun!
Top Tips for Children
Stay visible using hi-vis vests and lights
Make sure your bike is in working order
Plan your route and let your parents or carers know
Travel with a friend – it’s more fun that way!
Planning a Safe Journey:
Sustrans provide free information for schools, parents, pupils, councils and anybody else interested in school travel initiatives. Find answers to all those niggling school travel questions in our comprehensive FAQ section. Keep up with all the latest school travel news and events here.
To get your school involved in the Big Pedal go to: http://bigpedal.org.uk/