A MILK float and a dragon boat are not the usual forms of transport for a mayor but yesterday Stockton's took the unusual method of travel in a bid to encourage others to ditch the car.

Councillor Jean O'Donnell added her support to the Don't Choke Britain campaign by leaving the civic car back at its base and attending the Alternative Car Show by alternative modes of transport.

An electric milk float loaned by ACC Dairies whisked her from the town's Civic Centre to the Castlegate Quay Watersports Centre, where she boarded a dragon boat, which was crewed by the Castlegate Powermen.

She was then transported along the River Tees by pedal power before the milk float once again picked her up to take her to the University of Durham, Queen's Campus, Stockton, to attend the opening of the car show.

Don't Choke Britain is a national campaign designed to encourage everybody to leave the car at home at least one day during June and try walking, cycling and public transport instead.

Funded by the six Passenger Transport Executives in England, the campaign is supported by local authorities throughout the UK. There is also a prize of £500 for the mayor's charity fund for the mayor with the most innovative idea for travel.

Sue Dobson, travel plan consultant with Stockton Borough Council's environment and technical services department, said: "The campaign also aims to highlight the health benefits of regular exercise such as walking and cycling that can help to prevent coronary heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and obesity as well as promoting general well-being."