ENERGETIC schoolchildren from across Worcestershire and Herefordshire have begun five days of exercise during Walk to School Week.

More than 6,000 pupils across the two counties will support the scheme, as primary schools actively encourage students and parents alike to put their best foot forward, from today, until Friday, May 23.

Children taking part will receive stickers and booklets as proof of their participation, and organisers hope the event will raise awareness of a number of issues.

"If families were able to walk to school occasionally, then communities would experience the environmental and health benefits associated with fewer vehicles on the roads," said Ann Mann, Herefordshire Council road safety officer.

"We know that the school run accounts for a sizeable chunk of rush hour traffic. It can cause congestion, pollution and danger outside some schools."

Worcestershire County Council, Herefordshire Council's Road Safety Unit and Green Transport Promotions Project all support the national Walk to School campaign.