A SERIES of debates have been organised for children to give their views on school travel.

Up to 50 pupils from St Joseph's, Bishop Thornton, North Rigton and Hampsthwaite schools, in Harrogate, debated the motion called "All children should walk at least part of the way to school".

Issues raised included whether or not schools need larger car parks and whether or not it is reasonable to expect a drop-off point to be five minutes' walk away.

The debates have been organised by North Yorkshire County Council.

Councillor Clare Wood, executive member for environmental services, said: "We know that parents in North Yorkshire very often have to drive their children to school, but that doesn't mean they have to come right up the school driveway.

"Even just a five minute 'park- and-stride' as part of every journey is easy to do and is good for everyone."