PARENTS are being told to saddle up with their children for the school run in Dorset.

Sustrans wants them to join in its Big Pedal campaign on February 28 to March 20 to get them out of the car and on to bicycles and scooters.

Jonathan Dixon, Sustrans Bike It officer for Dorset, said: “Sustrans is really excited to be running the Big Pedal again this year.

“Many adults used to cycle to school as kids and I’m sure they remember how much they loved it.”

Jonathan, who works with Dorset County Council and NHS Dorset, added: “What’s more with one in five cars on the road during the morning peak being on the school run, encouraging our children to walk, cycle and scoot reduces congestion and pollution around the school gates.

“I hope lots of schools in Dorset will get involved.”

The Sustrans charity wants youngsters, parents and teachers to take part.

Every journey to school by bike or scooter powers individuals schools round a virtual UK stage race.

There prizes to be won, from bike storage to cycle stunt displays.

Schools will also be raising money for Sustrans on February 28 with a Superheroes Day, when pupils donate £1 to Sustrans to dress up as their favourite Superhero.

The race is funded by the Bike Hub and powered by Sustrans.

Last year the Wey Valley school in Weymouth finished first in the south west of England secondary school competition.

Children from 950 schools nationwide travelled a total of 1,140,075 miles last year – saving 59,021 gallons of fuel and £368,484.

Jonathan said that he expects lots of Dorset schools to take part, with many fun cycling events to be staged during the competition.

TV presenter and cycling mum Kirsty Gallacher has also backed the Big Pedal.

She said: “Cycling the school run is a great way for kids and parents to get active and have some fun together.”

Visit thebigpedal.org.uk for more details and to sign up.