TWO Wee County primary schools were given special festive visits last month as a reward for the pupils’ efforts in walking to school.

Selected schools across Scotland were awarded with a fun meet and greet to celebrate the progress they’ve made getting active on the school run.

Strider, the mascot of Living Streets, the UK charity of everyday walking, kicked off the group's festive tour in Clacks with Alva Primary School and Banchory Primary School on December 5; before continuing to other WOW schools across Scotland.

WOW is Living Streets’ year-round walk to school challenge. Pupils who walk to school at least once a week are rewarded with a monthly collectable badge, helping to create a habit for life.

Schools which take part see an increase in walking rates by 23 per cent on average, reduction in congestion around the school gates and a more active and healthier journey to school for both children and their families.

Children learned about the benefits of walking to school in the winter months, met the famous Strider and took part in festive activities.

WOW is currently being run in 23 local authorities in Scotland benefiting over 50,000 pupils.

Cllr Graham Lindsay, education spokesperson in the Wee County, said: “It’s great to see the children at Alva and Banchory being rewarded for walking to school with this visit from Strider.

“Young people from schools throughout Clackmannanshire are being encouraged to walk to school when they can, helping them to get into healthy habits for the rest of their lives.”