SHOPPERS in Bromsgrove yesterday were left in no doubt about the message town crier Kevin Ward was putting across.

It was simply "Get On Your Bike."

Kevin was one of a chain of 120 criers in towns and cities across the length and breadth of the country who loudly publicised the launch of the eighth annual "Let's Breath, Don't Choke Britain," campaign.

It is aimed at persuading the public to look at forms of transport other than cars for both health and environmental reasons.

Kevin, from Sidemoor, a keen cyclist who frequently bikes to his job as a nurse at Selly Oak Hospital, stressed the campaign is not anti car.

But he said, with the increasing numbers of youngsters suffering from asthma and illnesses caused by air pollution and the problems of childhood obesity, it is essential more sensible use is made of the car by using park and ride, public transport, leaving it at home occasionally, walking or cycling.

This would make our environment cleaner and healthier and the population fitter, he added.

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