PUPILS who put on their walking boots to trek to school have been rewarded for their efforts.

Youngsters at the Oakfield Primary School in Scott Drive, Wickford, were among children at 130 schools in the county who took part in Essex County Council’s Walk to School Week.

The aim of the week was to encourage children and parents to think of different ways of getting to school without using cars.

Some walked and others used the bus, but county-wide, an estimated 165,000 car journeys were saved.

All the schools which took part were rewarded with vouchers giving free admission to Marsh Farm Country Park, South Woodham Ferrers, and the chance to win a Nintendo Wii package.

Children at the Wickford school took the top prize and were presented with a games console by Robert Overall, the county council’s director for environment, sustainability and highways.

Norman Hume, councillor responsible for highways, said: “This was a really fantastic effort from pupils and their parents across Essex to stay fit and healthy by walking to school.

“It is very easy to take the car, but this can lead to dangers outside schools and congestion.

“Walking can be a good way of exercising and living a sustainable lifestyle.

“We have a great network of volunteers running our walking buses across Essex as well as dedicated crossing patrols.

“I hope that all of the pupils who took part continue their efforts.”