PUPILS caught a bus with a difference to get them behind their desks on time at a school in Bromsgrove on Monday.

Lickey End First School is only the second in the county to launch a Walking Bus scheme which at present operates over two routes in the area around the school.

The bus, which is 'driven' by an adult, is part of Worcestershire County Council's safer routes to schools scheme.

Headteacher Ann Hill said children can join the bus on its journeys from Spadesbourne Road and Long Meadow Road and Meadowvale Road to the school in School Lane.

Before joining the crocodile, the children don distinctive safety tops, supplied by the county council, and signs advising drivers have been posted in the area.

Mrs Hill said the bus has numerous benefits: "It helps reduce traffic congestion around the school the children arrive fresh and alert and they can enjoy a chat with friends while they walk," she said.

Sandra's Super Shop in Alcester Road is sponsoring the scheme by giving the 'passengers' goody bags to enjoy en route.

Mrs Hill said depending on the success of the initial routes a third, taking in Alcester Road, will be considered.