03-03-2025
Darlington schoolkids send message to the skies in anti-idling campaign
Pupils at a Darlington school sent a message to the skies last week.
Schoolchildren at Gurney Pease Academy braved the weather to spell out 'We love clean air' on the playground as part of an ongoing campaign.
It comes as schools across the town are campaigning with the Council to Care for Clean Air, and stop motorists idling outside their gates.
It is estimated an idling car – one running while parked up - creates enough emissions to fill 150 balloons with harmful pollutants each minute.
Joanne Davison, acting Principal for Gurney Pease Academy said: 'The children had great fun taking part in the drone photo and learned a bit about drone technology as well. It's been a fun way to drive home an important message around air pollution and the harm it can cause everyone especially younger children and those who are more vulnerable.
The pupils gathered to promote clean air and anti-engine idling. (Image: DARLINGTON COUNCIL)
'We're delighted to support the council's Care for Clean Air campaign and look forward to putting our banner up and spreading the word about engine idling.'
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About 180 kids from reception to Year 6 took part in the drone photo.
Cllr Matthew Roche, cabinet member for health and housing on Darlington Borough Council, said: 'We are working hard to reduce our own emissions to improve air quality and to help encourage everyone to stop engine idling as well as being aware of the dangers around air pollution.
'It's great to see local children taking an interest in an issue that affects us all, especially younger people and those with health conditions.'
