PUPILS have demonstrated how they have adopted a healthier, safer way of travelling to school to two VIP guests.

The Mayoress of Newton Aycliffe, Councillor Maude Gray, and director of education Keith Mitchell and their cars were surrounded by students on bikes when they visited Woodham Community Technology College.

The cyclists' ambushing of their guests was praised by headteacher Steve Harness as they were helping to celebrate International Car- Free Day, encouraging drivers to leave their vehicles at home for the day.

A cycle park for 50 bikes was recently installed at the school, and there are already plans for an extension.

Cycling has become a popular mode of transport with staff and pupils, who are taking advantage of improved links with around the town.

The initiative is part of a county-wide scheme by Durham County Council to devise travel plans that will cut the number of parents using cars to take their children to school, ease traffic congestion, reduce air pollution and promote physical exercise, including walking and cycling, as a way of getting about.