Biking it to Belmont Academy

Jul 4 2008

SCHOOLKIDS signed off for the summer by cycling to class.

Children at Alloway and Doonfoot Primaries got on their bikes to head for Belmont Academy, where they will start in August.

The initiative was part of National Bike week and the P7 kids cycled from their current schools to their new secondary.

Councillor Peter Convery revealed: “This is a terrific project that has culminated in the pupils’ first cycling trip to their new school.

“The pupils have all previously received road cycle training from either council employees or trained volunteer parents.

“So they are all aware of how to travel safely on a bicycle.

“I believe that this will encourage them to consider travelling to and from school by bicycle, will give them great exercise.

“And it also means that they can get out and about with their friends.

“In South Ayrshire we have an ever-increasing number of cycle paths and cycling has never been more popular than it is today.

“Many people find it beneficial to their physical and mental wellbeing and a quick and efficient way to travel.”

He added: “It is also very kind to the environment.

“Importantly, cycling is something that people can enjoy whatever their age, so I hope that these children will continue to cycle for the rest of their lives.”

Road Safety employees, Campus Police Officers, Active Schools Co-ordinators and teachers were all involved in the project.

During the day a representative from the John Pollock Centre, ran a bike clinic and advised pupils and Belmont Academy employees about their bikes.