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| High Sheriff of Kent Jane Rogers and KM Charity Team trustee Brian Portanier with west Kent winners |
Primary schools from across west Kent have been recognised for their commitment to improving the environment by removing car journeys from the road.
They were presented with certificates for their efforts at a glittering KM Walk to School Awards ceremony.
At Bishop’s Down in Tunbridge Wells the school not only took the top established walking bus title for the area but Alison Ruff was the top volunteer for the whole of Kent.
Simon Dolby, chairman on the KM Charity Team, which runs the schemes said the school has run two buses for the last 10 years, keeping the enthusiasm driving forward.
“Pupils are proud ambassadors for the scheme, spreading the word by telling children at other schools about it, he added.
“Alison has not only kept the walking buses going at her own school but has visited other primaries to inspire and help parents launch theirs. Her commitment has been described as ‘amazing’.”
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| | Alison Ruff receives her award from Di Merwood of Denne |
St James’ Infant School won the top Walk on Wednesday title for the district, removing 366 school run journeys from the roads in terms one and two.
The healthiest school in Kent went to Benenden Primary, where school secretary Janet Vickers was also top member of staff for the district.
Alison Craig from the St Peter and St Paul’s Primary won the top volunteer award for the district at the KM Walk to School Awards.
Simon Dolby, chairman of the KM Charity Team, which runs walk to school schemes, said: “Alison’s energy, endurance and commitment ensures the ‘wheels” on the bus go round.
“She is a regular driver who is always ready to step into the breach, runs road safety tests and offers her home for volunteer meetings and events.
“Alison has done all this despite having emergency surgery for a hole in the heart following the birth of her second son.”
Guests at the awards night included schools, parents and sponsors and they were entertained by X Factor finalist Ben Mills.
Mr Dolby said the event was a great start to the KM Charity team’s 10th birthday year.
He thanked all those whose support had helped to make KM Walk to School what it is today and praised Veolia Environmental Services whose sponsorship made the awards night possible.