SCHOOLS across Gwent are being invited to get involved in a new national scheme being launched by cycling charity Sustrans.

The Big Pedal 2017 is a challenge to get more young people cycling and scooting to school.

It will run from Monday 20 to Friday, March 31, and will see pupils, teachers and parents across the UK leave their cars at home and take part.

Powered by Sustrans and funded by the Bicycle Association on behalf of the cycle industry through its Bike Hub scheme, The Big Pedal is the UK’s largest competition of its kind.

The national initiative also has the backing of two-times Olympic gold medallist cyclist Joanna Rowsell Shand for the second year running.

One of the best British cyclists of her generation, Joanna has won five world titles across individual and team events and gold medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.

Mrs Rowsell Shand said: “Cycling is great for young people’s health, confidence and independence. The safer and more comfortable they feel on their bikes, the more they will enjoy cycling.

“The Big Pedal campaign is a fantastic way for kids to cycle together whilst learning about the rules of the road in a fun, engaging way. I hope this year as many schools as possible will take part in the UK’s largest school cycling and scooting event.”

This year’s theme is ‘Around the world in 10 days’, with pupils tracking their progress on a map of the world, learning about the countries and cities they pass through on their way.

According to Sustrans, the number of children walking and cycling to school has been declining since 1995, with the number being driven to primary school increasing each year.

Last year more than 1,500 schools signed up to take part in the scheme including Blaenavon Heritage VC Primary School who clocked up 2,500 journeys in 10 days. In the UK teachers, parents, siblings and pupils made more than a million journeys to school on their bikes and scooters.

Ben Merry, behaviour change coordinator for education at Sustrans, described The Big Pedal as the “perfect” way to get involved due to average primary school journey measuring 1.6 miles.

For more information visit bigpedal.org.uk.