Walking buses' new jackets sponsored by East Sussex Highways

East Sussex Highways have stepped in and sponsored 500 high-visibility tabards (sleeveless jackets) which will be used to boost and renew the Council's stocks for children and adults participating in approved "Walking Bus" schemes.

A Walking Bus is a supervised group of children escorted to school by trained volunteers along a set route, to a pre-arranged timetable.

Currently around 300 children from 23 schools are involved in such schemes across East Sussex. The County Council helps schools identify a safe route, provides insurance, trains volunteers and works with them to make all other arrangements to support children's safety.

Many schools offerincentives, such as stickers, vouchers and certificates, to keep children's and adults' motivation and participation numbers high.

Councillor Matthew Lock, Lead Member for Transport and Environment said"This sponsorship arrangement in partnership with May Gurney will help our children, and indeed the whole community, share in the road safety benefits resulting from fewer cars and less congestion. The schools and children will in turn reap the benefits of being fitter, healthier and ready to learn."

John Jackson, Operations Director for May Gurney Highway Services added"Along with our supply chain partner Parker Merchandising, we are delighted to be associated with such a scheme. We have over 15, 000 workers working on the road network nationwide and understand the dangers of working on and using the highway. We are committed to working towards the long term safety for all road users and this sort of initiative is an important step in protecting both the environment and the safety of all involved."