It's Our World: Ditch the car and bike to work for the week

Sep 16 2009 by Jade Wright, Birkenhead News

DRIVERS across Wirral are being asked to leave their cars at home next week, in favour of cycling, walking or catching public transport.

It’s all part of TravelWise Week, designed to encourage people to think about using greener alternatives to the car.

Teachers are being provided with a new schools resource pack to help integrate healthier, sustainable travel issues into the curriculum.

TravelWise Week - which coincides with International Car Free Day (22 September) – is supported by the five Merseyside councils and Merseytravel as part of a long-term aim to reduce carbon emissions, tackle climate change and cut congestion.

TravelWise Co-ordinator, Jane Moore, says: “By reducing the number of car journeys, drivers can really help cut congestion and make the roads safer for everyone. And with the rising fuel costs, swapping the car for a greener option can save you money too.

“Depending on the journey, catching the bus, cycling or walking can often be cheaper and faster than the driving commute. But if leaving the car at home for a whole week seems daunting, I would urge people to make at least some journeys by bus, train, bike or on foot.”

Throughout the week there are lots of prizes up for grabs from bikes and money saving transport tickets to pedometers.

Call 0151 330 1253 or visit www.LetsTravelWise.org for details and to get free cycling and walking maps.