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The children demonstrated the value of leaving the car at home as part of National Walk to School Week.

Parents have been asked to leave their cars at home and show their support for the Government led initiative to reduce traffic congestion and pollution and encourage children to take more exercise.

Councillor Val Stevens, Manchester City Council's executive member for planning and transport, said: "The health and safety of children is of paramount importance to the City Council and to the whole community.

"Walking to school has a range of benefits, including health benefits and the alleviation of parking problems. New Government research has found that teachers think it is an excellent way for pupils to wake up fully so they are ready for the first lesson of the day.

"We're not saying that everyone should walk all the way to school, but in many cases parents could park a few streets away from school and complete the remaining distance with their children on foot. This cuts congestion near schools, saves time waiting for parking spaces and makes the start of the day less stressful."