LIVING Streets is encouraging schoolchildren to take to their feet for National Walking Month in May.

Walk to School Week, from May 19-23, will encourage families to try the school run on foot.

The initiative is part of national charity Living Streets’ annual flagship event aimed at raising awareness of the many benefits of walking.

Living Streets’ Chief Executive Tony Armstrong said: “Walking just 20 minutes a day can help you lose a few pounds from your waistline, save a few pounds in your pocket and reduce your stress levels.

“Over time you’ll reduce your risk of chronic conditions in the future, such as type 2 diabetes, so it’s as good for your heart as it for your head.

“If everyone in England walked just 20 minutes a day we would save 37,000 lives and save the economy billions of pounds.”

Family walking challenges, a guide to setting up a Park and Stride scheme and tips and games to make the most of the walk to school can all be found on the charity’s website.

Visit livingstreets.org.uk.