31/3/2009 - Key Stage 2 results - Cumbrian pupils top of the class

Transport Minister Paul Clark was in Cumbria today (Tuesday) to see a cycle training scheme in action.

He visited Skelton Primary School, near Penrith, this afternoon to watch children going through the Bikeability programme –a course proving to be a massive hit in Cumbria.

Bikeability - the Government approved and nationally recognised award for cycle training - is designed to give young cyclists the skills and confidence they need to ride their bikes safely on the road.

Since the scheme started in Cumbria two years ago Capita Symonds, on behalf of Cumbria County Council, has been highly successful in securing funding from the Government and rolling it out to schools across the county. 

And the scheme has done so well in Cumbria, the Transport Minister chose today’s visit to announce Government plans to put extra funding into cycle training nationwide.

Over the next year Cumbria County Council is being awarded £160,000 that will fund 4,000 training places, while nationwide a total of £10million is being pumped into the scheme.

Mr Clark said: "Encouraging young people to cycle is important, but ensuring they do so safely is crucial. I am delighted to see the great work done with Bikeability in Cumbria which is why I've come here to announce £10m to run the scheme across England in 2009. 

"I would encourage other regions to look at what's been achieved here when running the scheme in their area."

In Cumbria’s schools Bikeability is targeted at children between the ages of nine and 12.

The training includes how to control a bike, road positioning and being able to assess traffic. Badges are awarded to youngsters on completion of the course.

During his visit to Skelton Mr Clark chatted with children and instructors about the course and got to see first-hand exactly what it involves.

Councillor Alan Clark, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member for road safety, said: "The minister’s visit to Cumbria today is a tribute to how successful Bikeability is proving to be in the county.

"It’s a fantastic course and it ensures that children are fully equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to ride their bikes safely.

"Getting people to use greener methods of transport is crucial in the battle against climate change so anything that encourages children to get on their bikes from an early age, but to do it safely, can only be a good thing.

"As well as the environmental benefits cycling is a great way of staying or getting fit and active."

For more information on Bikeability visit www.bikeability.org.uk

ENDS

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