The journeys were made as part of Sustrans’ Big Pedal – the UK’s biggest school cycling competition backed by world cycling champion Mark Cavendish and involving more than a thousand schools around the country. With fuel prices rising and shortages looming, over a quarter of a million children showed how choosing two wheels instead of four for the school run can help families save cash while getting fit.If these cycling levels were maintained throughout the school year, cash strapped Britons could save themselves nearly £3million in fuel costs.

Gary Shipp Sustrans Schools co-ordinator said, “Rising prices and looming fuel shortages mean that parents across the country are looking for ways to cut back on petrol costs.Thousands of British families – including Samantha Cameron and her kids – are showing just how easy it is to leave the car at home and use two wheels for short journeys like the school run.” He added, “Children that regularly cycle to school are fitter, more alert and better learners.Nearly half of all children want to be able to get to school by bike but only two per cent do.”