A FOUNDER and coordinator of a scheme which encourages children to walk to school safely has stepped down.

Claire Rickard founded the walking bus at St Andrew’s Primary School in Hitchin.

The scheme, which saw 35 children a day take part, has just celebrated its sixth anniversary, and aims to cut down on congestion, promote healthy lifestyles and encourage social interaction.

To mark her leaving, Claire was presented with flowers from walking bus dinosaur Buster.

She said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time as co-ordinator, the children and helpers are so enthusiastic it hasn’t been an onerous task at all and I always look forward to a visit from Buster.”