CHILDREN from two Tameside primary schools enjoyed a fun ‘Jingle Jog’ in a winter wonderland, whilst being active and taking in nature.
The pupils were joined by teachers as they put on their hi-vis and festive attire to complete circuits of Chadwick Dam, a scenic walking and cycling route through Ashton-under-Lyne and Stalybridge.
It’s also a Bee Network scheme, where improvements have been made to an off-road path for people to enjoy walking and cycling, and a new crossing has been put in on Mossley Road to enhance access to the park and connections between residential areas and Tameside Hospital.
Youngsters at Inspire Academy and Silver Springs Primary Academy can use the network to make active journeys to and from school.
“It was fantastic to have so many children enjoying the opportunity to get some exercise in the outdoors at a beautiful location,” said Louise Armstrong, the principal at Inspire Academy.
“It’s wonderful to have Chadwick Dam on our doorstep with the Bee Network route helping our families cycle and walk to school.”
Deborah Mason, the principal at Silver Springs, added: “The children had a great time racing around the Bee Network at Chadwick Dam. It’s a lovely spot where our families can enjoy the natural scenery, while the paths provide the option to cycle or walk to and from school.”
The jog was facilitated and supported by Tameside Council, Transport for Greater Manchester and Ridgehill Big Local Enterprises – a not-for-profit social enterprise that leases and manages the land.
It also tied in with the council’s Think Green campaign, designed to inspire residents and businesses to join the mission to make Tameside cleaner and greener.
Councillor Jan Jackson, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Planning, Transport and Connectivity, said: “I’m delighted that the children were able to have fun while being active and enjoying nature during this festive treat. I’d encourage as many people as possible to make the most of the facilities at this lovely location.
“The Bee Network enables people making short journeys to walk or cycle to their destination in a safe, healthy and sustainable way. We’re making improvements to our walking and cycling infrastructure across Tameside to benefit our residents throughout the borough.”