Children celebrate 10 years of their ‘walking bus’

Whatever the weather, the walking bus has been making sure pupils arrive safely and on time since 2006.

Much the same as a regular bus, it has a driver, passengers, a set timetable and scheduled bus stops – the only difference is that children aboard a walking bus rather than use a motorised vehicle.

Not only is it better for the environment, but there are health benefits through regular walking and increased road safety.

The council’s road safety mascot Gary GoSafe has helped mark the occasion and attended a celebratory event at the school – there was even a Gary GoSafe cake made specially!

Carway School assistant head teacher Carrie Rees said: “We are immensely proud of our walking bus and the dedication of our hardworking volunteer Ronaldene Mills (and previously Tracey Lewis) has ensured its success over the past 10 years.

“The walking bus travels whatever the weather, ensuring that the pupils arrive in school on time for breakfast club. It has had an extremely positive effect on the attendance and punctuality of our pupils and we hope that it will continue to travel for many years to come. “

Local member for Carway Cllr Tyssul Evans said: “I would like to thank the volunteers for their dedication to the walking bus service over the last decade and hopefully it will continue for the next decade. Since its inception it is noticeable that absenteeism has reduced amongst pupils and the children look forward to joining up with their friends as the walking bus passes their homes.”

Carway’s walking bus has won five awards over the past 10 years, including two national awards from Road Safety Wales and Asda’s Health for Kids.

Executive Board Member for Transport Cllr Hazel Evans said: “Walking is healthy, free and fun. Walking in numbers makes it safer for children, and helps develop their road safety skills. It also reduces the number of vehicles at the school gates which pose a safety and environmental problem.

“If there’s a walking bus at your school, join in and get involved; and if your school doesn’t have one, suggest that one is started – the council’s road safety team can help get things moving if there’s support for the idea.”