THE efforts of schools in Hartlepool to improve the health and safety of their pupils have been recognised.

A celebration of school travel plans took place at the town's Historic Quay recently, where 24 schools were represented.

Travel plans are blueprints for promoting safer forms of school travel. They play a key role in tackling traffic congestion outside schools by encouraging walking and cycling.

Joanne Taylor, Hartlepool Borough Council's travel plan assistant, said: "There are currently 31 schools in the town with an authorised plan, which equates to 78 per cent of the town's schools - well above the national target.

"We decided to stage this event to boost awareness and to thank schools for all their hard work."

Mayor Stuart Drummond presented a plaque to each school with an approved plan.

Mr Drummond said: "Ensuring the safety of schoolchildren across Hartlepool and encouraging them to adopt healthier lifestyles is a top priority for the council, and I was delighted to be invited to present these awards.

"I would like to congratulate all of the schools that have or are working on school travel plans, and I would urge others to follow suit."

Initiatives include walking buses and secure cycle storage at some schools.