Art helps pupils get on their bikes with revamp at school

The artist worked with pupils at Thorne Brooke Primary School to produce three murals to decorate the school’s bike shed, as part of a scheme organised by the eco-friendly transport charity Sustrans.

Sustrans has worked with the school since September 2009, encouraging teachers, pupils and parents to come to school either on foot or by bike rather than in a car. As a result, during the last 18 months, the number of children cycling to school has risen from zero up to 30.

Tom Collister, Sustrans “Bike It” officer for Doncaster, said: “The school has been working hard to achieve a lasting pro-cycling culture.

“They have just received their Bronze Sustrans School Mark Award, so this is a great reward for all their hard work.

“There are so many benefits that come from cycling – it’s good for children’s health, confidence and independence, it cuts down congestion outside the school and it doesn’t damage the environment.”

Sustrans currently works with 18 schools in Doncaster and there are 58 “Bike It” officers in post across England and Wales, working with more than 1,000 schools in 53 local authorities.