An Epsom school has become the first in the country to win a prestigious cycling award.

Epsom Downs Primary School has been awarded the Silver Bike It award by UK Charity, Sustrans, which promotes cycling as a healthier and greener transport option.

The award recognises the school’s work in promoting cycling to school pupils, having doubled the numbers of bike-users over the past three years.

Dedicated Cycling Officer, teacher Gemma Finbow, said: "We want our children to learn in a clean and safe environment and that extends to our outside grounds and the local area.

"We work hard with our local community and encourage our children to cycle to school so that we can reduce local traffic, keep fit and healthy and cut down on the environmental impact of cars."

Each year children take part in an annual cycling week, where they are able to attend cycle maintenance workshops to learn how to care for their bike.

Pupils are also given the chance to take part in cycling-based PE lessons and enter Sustrans competitions for the chance to win prizes.

Headteacher Sally Leach said: "We are very committed to Bike It and thrilled that the school has been recognised for the efforts to promote cycling to school.

"The children are taught cycle and road safety through our enrichment programme. Gemma Finbow, with Gayle from Sustrans, has done a wonderful job to organise fun events to further encourage children and their parents to cycle to school."

Sustrans organises events throughout the UK aimed at providing practical solutions to the UK’s transport challenges.

A spokesperson said: "By working with communities, local authorities and many other organisations, we create change by putting people at the heart of activities, enabling many more people to travel in ways that benefit their health and the environment."