AN array of strange characters are hoping to give parents paws for thought - while encouraging youngsters to walk to school.

Arnie the Armadillo and his friends Spike the Hedgehog, Safety Squirrel, Pedestrian Pete, and Robbie the Amazing Kid with The Tees Forest, launched Walk to School Week, at Middles-brough's Stewart Park, yesterday.

The Tees Forest is working with local authorities in the North-East to encourage schoolchildren to use foot power to help protect the environment from polluting traffic congestion.