CHILDREN at three Ribble Valley schools could be getting on board a 'walking bus' as part of a keep-fit and keep-healthy initiative put forward by health staff.

Now an appeal has gone out for volunteers in Longridge to help man their 'walking bus'.

Similar schemes have been tried elsewhere in East Lancashire, but this is the first time in the area several schools have joined to launch the project.

The scheme came from Preston Primary Care Trust's Longridge-based health visitors Lynne Jowett and Liz Armstrong, backed by Longridge area school nurse Ann Sayle.

After local schools showed interest, police, council representatives and Walking Project Co-ordinator Kath Mitchell are on board, trying to see if the 'walking bus' can get motoring.

Now Berry Lane Primaryl, Longridge Primary and St Wilfrid's Primary are sending out questionnaires about the walk-to-school scheme that would be run by parents with support from the schools. Volunteers are needed to take turns to escort the 'bus' to school, collecting children from designated 'bus stops' along the way.

The bus will initially run for one morning a week, and it is hoped that it will be so popular that this can be increased.

Preston Primary Care Trust Health Visitor Lynne Jowett said: "There are many positive benefits with such a scheme, such as reduced traffic, an opportunity for exercise, and the creation of a safer and healthier environment.

"Schools operating similar schemes have found that children arrive at school refreshed and ready for their lessons.

"They also have increased confidence and improved awareness of road safety.

"It all fits in with our overall aim to get children to take more exercise and live a healthier lifestyle.

"And, of course, the volunteer parents would feel healthier and hopefully, more fulfilled too."

But Lynne added: "It all depends on the level of interest and support from parents."

Anyone interested in becoming a police-checked volunteer can ring Lynne Jowett, Health Visitor for Preston Primary Care Trust at Longridge Community Hospital, on 781100 or Kath Mitchell at Ribble Valley Council on 01200 414484.