THE importance of using safety equipment when using and playing on scooters was highlighted to the borough’s young children in a Thurrock Council-run competition.

The council’s road safety team launched the scheme before Christmas, promoting and encouraging young pupils to travel in a more sustainable way.

The “Buddy on a scooter” colouring competition was open to all pupils who were asked to draw a “Buddy” riding on a scooter. The Buddy could be anyone they knew or would like to be their buddy on their way to school.

In total 1,620 pupils entered with a total of six scooters available as prizes.

David Bull the council’s Director of Planning and Transportation judged the competition and said afterwards: “We had a remarkable number of pupils entering and the standard was so high it made it difficult to choose only six winners.

“I looked for entries which highlighted the importance of wearing a helmet, knee pads, and fluorescent clothing.”

All the prizes were presented by road safety trainers Leah Tibble, Julie Knight and Lisa Clissold at assemblies.