THOUSANDS of Swindon youngsters have signed up to walk to school next week.

They are taking part in national Walk to School Week which encourages parents to leave the car at home for at least one day between 20 and 24 May and walk to school with their children.

"Walking's safer and less hassle than parking at the school gate," said Swindon Council's road safety manager Margaret Tester. "While they're walking, parents and children can enjoy their surroundings.

"It's also a chance for pupils to discover the safest routes to school and how to cross the roads safely."

Walking is a cheap and easy form of exercise which is essential for children, saves fuel and is better for the environment.

In all 24 schools, 200 classes and 5,800 children will take part in an exercise Margaret hopes will become a habit.