Local charity, Frome’s Missing Links, organised a hugely successful School Travel Challenge in 2017 to encourage the whole school community to walk, scoot or cycle to school. This year they are working again with Frome Town Council and the Challenge will take place from 21st to 25th May 2018. Vallis First School however, have already been reaping the rewards as they were the winners of a scooter rack made of re-cycled pallet wood by Frome Men’s Shed.
The Frome Men’s Shed provides men with a place to meet up and share skills, as well as chat and drink tea. The Shedders who worked on the rack were Leon Russell and Ian Williams, with support from Peter Gulliver, John Philp and others. “The Frome Men’s Shed undertake projects for Community Groups in the area, and we were delighted when we received a request for a scooter rack for a Frome School as a prize” said Patrick Abrahams at Frome Men’s Shed.
Naomi Pauley, Headteacher at Vallis first School, said “Everyone at Vallis is thrilled to have won the scooter rack. We are very enthusiastic about promoting healthier transport to school and this prize will definitely help us to raise the profile of scooting, biking and walking as an alternative to the car. We look forward to being part of this year’s School Travel Challenge!”
Councillor Rich Ackroyd said “The benefits of travelling actively to school are enormous. Research has proven that children who travel actively to school are more alert, can concentrate for longer and are more independent. This is alongside being fitter, healthier and happier. Plus – walking, scooting and riding a bike is loads of fun!”
The Challenge is also raising awareness and funds for local charity, Frome’s Missing Links, who are actively working to link up traffic free and accessible walking and cycling routes around Frome. It is open to all schools in Frome and is completely free to enter.
A meeting to launch a Frome Women’s Shed is taking place on the 19th March, 1:30pm at the Cheese & Grain. For more information contact Emma at parkere@frometowncouncil.gov.uk
