The “walking bus” is making great strides in Medway, where the scheme to get pupils to school safely has attracted hundreds of children.

The idea began in 2003 with just 10 passengers. Now, as the initiative celebrates its seventh year, there are 40 routes in the borough and more than 700 children walking their way to school on it.

Each bus is set up by volunteers, who walk along a set route with one at the front and another at the back. There is always a ratio of one adult to six children.

Passengers are picked up and dropped off at specific stops. All bus passengers wear brightly coloured tabards.

Phil Filmer, cabinet member for frontline services at Medway Council, said: “The continued success of the walking bus is fantastic, as more children use the bus as a safe and healthy route to school.” HW.