FAMILIES across East Renfrewshire are being urged to saddle up for a special event which aims to get more young people cycling and scooting to school.

The Big Pedal 2018, which runs from Monday, April 23, to Friday, May 4, will see pupils, parents and teachers leave their cars at home and get on their bikes and scooters for their journeys to and from the classroom.

Organised by walking and cycling charity Sustrans and sponsored by Micro Scooters and Tonik, the Big Pedal is the largest competition of its kind in the UK.

During the 10 days, participating primary and secondary schools will compete with one another to make the most journeys by bike or scooter.

Endurance cyclist Mark Beaumont, who holds the Guinness World Record for cycling around the world in 78 days, is backing the Big Pedal 2018.

He said: “Encouraging young people to cycle and scoot from an early age not only boosts physical and mental health, it also helps build good habits for independent and active travel into teenage and adult life.

“I hope as many schools as possible will take part.”

For more, visit www.bigpedal.org.uk.