HEADTEACHER John Stinson is to practise what he teaches by running 15 miles from his home to St Peter's C of E Primary School, at Brotton.

The 55-year-old's challenge will entail his setting off from his home, in Newton-under-Roseberry, at 6.30am tomorrow, in honour of National Walk to School Week.

Not to let the side down, Richard Unthank, his deputy, is joining in, too, but at a more sedate pace - walking from his Saltburn home.

Long-distance runner Mr Stinson completed the 25th Tees Valley Half Marathon at Redcar earlier this year, and the Edinburgh 10k two weeks ago.

Reflecting on tomorow's challenge, he said: "I've never run it before - and if I do it again without a car, I'd choose a mountain bike."

The 300 five to 11-year-olds who attend the school are also doing their bit for the walk to school week, all logging their distances walked each day.

The 25 children in the school's special needs unit will end their normal taxi journey a mile short of the school, to be met by staff and then everyone will complete the journey with a walk, aiming for a welcome by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's road safety mascot, Spikey, at the school in Marshall Drive.

Councillor Mary Lanigan, the council's cabinet member for strategic planning, development and infrastructure, said: "I wish John the very best of luck - he's set himself quite a challenge.

"I'm sure all the children will be determined to complete their challenges, and it's a great example to everyone on how important walking to school is - and what fun it can be, too."