A SCHEME aims to get the district's schoolchildren on the move.

The Daily Mile encourages primary and nursery school pupils to walk or run for 15 minutes a day.

Bradford Council is backing the free initiative, which is designed to improve both youngsters' health and academic achievement.

Councillor Val Slater, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, said: "We all want to give our children the best start in life and we're particularly keen for them to be healthy and active.

"We're asking all primary schools in Bradford district to join us in doing the Daily Mile to help make them healthier, happier and great places to learn.

"It will help schools raise attainment levels, reduce childhood obesity and produce a pleasant environment for pupils to learn in.

"Experiences from schools which have taken part in the scheme show it works best if teachers use their discretion to take pupils out when they're getting fidgety, flagging or they just need a break to let off steam and clear their heads."

Daily Mile founder, Elaine Wyllie, who created the scheme in 2012, welcomed Bradford Council's support.

"It's fantastic to see the council encourage local schools to adopt it," she added.

"The scheme will empower the children of Bradford district to take responsibility for their own health and wellbeing – improving their body composition and mental health, not just for now, but for the future."

Visit thedailymile.co.uk for more details.