Trained parents supervise the walking children

Children from Stanhope Barrington CE Primary piloted the scheme during international Walk to School Week last month when a third of pupils took part.

A rota of parents and volunteers will now be trained by the county council's road safety team.

High visibility vests for children and "drivers" are also being provided so the bus can become a permanent feature.

'More alert'

Head teacher Lynne Bainbridge launched the bus and acted as the "driver" at the start of the pilot.

It currently operates mornings only with two groups joining up at the school crossing patrol point in Front Street to travel to school.

Mrs Bainbridge said: "The children, some of whom had never walked to school in their lives, have benefited enormously.

"Their energy levels have risen and they are more alert in class."

Up to 30 children from nursery to Year Six use the service and many come from further afield by car and park at the Durham Dales Centre to join the walk.