SEDGLEY schoolchildren could soon be hitching a ride on the walking bus if plans get the go-ahead to adopt the scheme.

The idea attempts to encourage parents to ditch the car and help reduce congestion and parking problems which currently plague Sedgley.

Karen Jones, who is chairwoman of the Sedgley Parents Group, is already backing the scheme.

She said: “There are major traffic and parking problems in Kings Road and Catholic Lane and I believe the walking bus scheme would be a positive way of alleviating this ongoing problem.”

She has been supported by Sedgley councillor and UKIP West Midlands MEP Bill Etheridge who added: “The walking bus scheme is a fantastic idea, it would benefit the area on many fronts.

“It would help bring down traffic emissions, tackle parking and traffic problems and be great exercise for pupils and encourage their road awareness.

“Very often the best ideas tend to be the simplest ideas.”

No date has yet been confirmed for the introduction of the walking bus, but the scheme would require the involvement of parents, headteachers and police.

A specific walking route would also need to be identified and tested first to make sure it is safe.

UKIP spokesman Craig Winyard said: “It’s a win-win situation and all the feedback we have received from parents has been very positive.

“It’s hoped the scheme will be introduced in Sedgley next term, but there are a number of issues, such as health and safety that need to be looked into first.

“We’ve already had a number of parents offering to volunteer for the walking bus and if the scheme proves a success, which we believe it will be, then it’s hoped the idea will be rolled out across Dudley borough.

“We are very keen to see the scheme up and running ahead of International Walk To School Day which is set to take place on October 7.”

Anyone who would like to lead a walking bus needs to be DBS registered and should call 01902 664670 or email info@mepukip.com for more information.