YOUNGSTERS at a Darlington academy won a themed walk to school by drawing pictures of their favourite heroes and villains.

A Christmas-themed walk was held at Skerne Park Academy, in Darlington, on Friday (December 12) morning.

The school won thanks to a student's drawing of a superhero school caretaker, who triumphed over a villain who was trying to promote unhealthy lifestyles.

The Mega Friday walks form a key part of the Mega Motion campaign jointly supported by Darlington Borough Council and Durham County Council.

The campaign aims to encourage as many pupils and parents as possible to leave their cars behind every Friday and walk, cycle or scoot to school.

Walking, cycling or scooting to school is a great way for children to start the day as they arrive at school more alert and ready to learn.

And the benefits aren’t just for the children, by choosing to leave the car behind, parents can clock up some of their recommended 150 minutes of activity per week.

Councillor David Lyonette, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for transport, said:

“Mega Motion is a great way to encourage families to consider the way they travel to school and choose a more healthy and sustainable alternative.

"By encouraging children to walk from an early age, they develop key life skills such as navigation and road safety as well as increased independence and confidence.”