HIGH SPEED train operator Eurostar is backing an award winning green travel initiative for schools in Kent.

The company is continuing its sponsorship of Walk to School, which is run by the KM’s charity department and aims to encourage an active lifestyle by adopting eco-friendly travel.

Luke Ervine, head of environment and energy at Eurostar, said: “We’re proud to continue supporting the KM Walk to School scheme, which has taken over a million Kent car journeys off the road in the last five years. It’s a key part of our Tread Lightly initiative, which is designed to inspire the local communities we work in to take action to protect their environment.

“By encouraging children to walk to school, it teaches green behaviours from a young age, keeps them fit and active, and helps them to learn about road safety. It’s a real pleasure to see the scheme going from strength to strength.”

Simon Dolby of the KM Charity Team thanked Eurostar for committing to another year of sponsorship. “We’re so grateful to our sponsors who help us to continue our work. Everyone benefits from fewer traffic jams, less pollution and a healthier mindset for our county’s children.”

The Kent County Council and Medway Council led scheme is also supported by Ashford Borough Council, Canterbury City Council, Maidstone Borough Council, Thanet District Council, Three R’s Teacher Recruitment, Mini Babybel, Countrystyle Recycling, Chaucer Foundation, Southern Water, Orbit South, Golding Homes, Jelf Insurance Brokers, Leeds Castle, Independent Music Productions, Whitefriars shopping area and Specsavers.

KM Walk to School projects such as Walk on Wednesday (WOW) and Active Bug promote walking, cycling or scootering to school. For more information, including how headteachers can sign up their schools, visit www.kmwalktoschool.co.uk.

For monthly e-newsletters on KM Walk to School and more visit www.kmwalktoschool.co.uk and register for School Link (for schools) or KM Link (for families).