Pupils in Ballinamallard Primary politely told the Environment Minister Sammy Wilson to 'get on yer bike' when he visited their School recently.

It was all in good spirits however, as the Minister was there to officially open a brand new pupils' bike shelter.

The facility is part of the Rural Safe Routes to School Programme which Ballinamallard have been taking part in since May 2007.

It is managed by the sustainable transport charity, Sustrans who have been working with the school to encourage pupils, teachers and parents to choose walking and cycling instead of the car for the school run.

Since Sustrans first started working with Ballinamallard Primary, the number of pupils walking and cycling to school has increased from 27% to 40%. The school has also seen a 12% fall in the number of pupils being driven to school.

The project has introduced a variety of measures to encourage cycling and walking to school. These have included a new bike shelter, improvements to the school entrance, including two safety zones, and improvements to the pavements approaching the school.

Ballinamallard Primary School Principal, John McCrea said: "The support that Sustrans have offered us over the last year has been invaluable. It is clear from our experience that by introducing a few practical measures you can really make a difference and help children choose walking or cycling instead of getting a lift in by car.

"It is not only a great way to get a bit of exercise, but we are already noticing the levels of traffic falling around the school. I hope the momentum created this year will carry on for many years to come."

In addition to new infrastructure, Sustrans have worked together with the school on several events, such as Bike breakfasts and Carbon Days.

These are all designed to highlight the benefits of cycling and walking. Sustrans have also supported staff in developing a school travel plan.

William Methven, Rural Safe Routes to Schools Manager for Sustrans congratulated Ballinamallard Primary on their initiative.

"It is fantastic to see the number of pupils walking and cycling to school has increased in such a short space of time.

"It is vital that this trend continues over the coming year. This is a tremendous achievement by Ballinamallard Primary School.

"We know that many young people want to cycle or walk to school, so it's crucial to give them the right kind of support to help them get what they want. By making improvements to the approaches to the school, creating a new path within the school and installing a new bike shelter, we are helping to create the right conditions to encourage young people to travel in healthy and active ways."