YOUNGSTERS from two York schools will get the chance to try cycling this week ahead of the city’s second annual car-free day.

Pupils and parents from St George’s RC and Fishergate Primary Schools have been invited to take part in a range of activities over the coming week, including themed assemblies and lessons, a theatre production and cycle try-out sessions.

The aim is to encourage the children and their families to try walking and cycling to school rather than using their cars, with parents able to pre-book bus travel vouchers to allow them to use a number of bus services free of charge on Car Free Day, which takes place next Wednesday.

Gillian Chefrad, City of York Council’s school travel plan co-ordinator, said: “This is a great opportunity to choose to leave the car at home and enjoy a healthy or sociable journey to school.

“We hope the sessions with pupils will encourage them and their friends and families to walk, cycle or use public transport services when and where possible.”