Primary school children in Slough were treated to a surprise visit from the mascot of a UK charity during Walk to School Week.

Living Streets mascot Strider gave children a congratulatory high-five and badges as a reward for walking to the school gates rather than being driven short journeys in a car.

Strider visited three schools starting at Iqra Primary School, Wexham Road, where pupils ran to tell Strider about their own walk to school.

Strider then visited Castleview School, Woodstock Avenue, and James Elliman Academy, Elliman Avenue.

Salma Malik, home liaison officer at Iqra Primary School, said: “The children absolutely loved seeing the mascot and taking part in Walk to School week.”

Cllr Rob Anderson, cabinet member for transport and environmental services, said: “We hoped to encourage a swap from four wheels for two feet during Walk to School Week and see what difference it makes on children’s health and happiness.

“We also encourage staff, parents and pupils to walk to school not just for one week, but to see how easy it is to plan into the day and walk all the time, every week.

“We could see big differences that come from small steps, with healthier and happier children to fewer cars outside the school gates.”

Walk to School Week is organised by Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking, as part of its National Walking Month campaign which ran throughout May.