TWO schools have been aw-arded grants to encourage pupils to travel to class in an environmentally friendly fashion.

Tenbury and Bayton Primary Schools have gained £5,305 and £4,125 respectively, as part of a drive to reduce car usage.

"The money will go towards providing a shelter for parents to wait under when it's wet, to encourage them to walk to school," said headteacher Avis Pounder. "We are also providing additional cycle racks as we have a lot of pupils who cycle to school, as well as some who come on scooters and skateboards"

Next week 15 cyclists will be take their proficiency tests and the school will also look at the possibility of introducing a walking bus.

Worcestershire County Coun-cil, which made the grants, has been working with schools to develop travel plans over the past year and hopes pupils, staff and parents will consider the environmental consequences of their transport.

Nicky Luff, TravelWise officer, said: "Reduced traffic around schools helps improve the safety of the children and is better for the environment."