THE BOYS from Scoil Phadraig Naofa in Tullow took part in a little pedal power on Wednesday morning when they cycled to school in a bid to earn the school's fourth green flag.

Over the past twelve months the green schools committee has been working tirelessly trying to reduce the number of cars arriving at the school each morning.

'The success of this programme will lead to the ease of congestion around the school area, a reduction in carbon emissions from the private car and indeed a healthier student,' said An Taisce's Green-School's travel officer Chiara Hanrahan'

The boys in Tullow have made a great effort to walk to school. Since undergoing cycle training last year, the committee now feel confident to promote the bicycle as a healthier and greener alternative to the private car.'

Having displayed such enthusiasm to date, An Taisce decided to fund a bicycle shelter for the school. The school already has some bicycle parking available, but with these new spaces, all bicycles will be accommodated.

This facility, along with the cycle training the boys have received has really kick started the cycling culture in the school.

To officially mark the beginning of their cycling campaign, Scoil Phadraig had a COW (Cycle on Wednesday) launch last Wednesday and over 20 boys biked it to school, while a further 100 pounded the pavements and walked to school.

'Cycling may not be an option for all the boys at Scoil Phadraig. It was just fantastic to see all the boys make an effort to cycle, walk, bus it or car pool to school – leaving the cars at home.'

The boys were rewarded with a morning of cycling activities.

Cycle and walking related prizes were awarded to some students and a special presentation was made to Patrick from senior infants, the youngest boy to use pedal power on the day.

- Lynda CONNOLLY