Jon Cruddas MP with Beam Primary pupils to show his support for the 'Big Pedal' scheme

MP joins pupils pedalling healthy bike message

Sukran Sahin, Senior Reporter Sunday, April 8, 2012
5:16 PM

Free-wheeling pupils welcomed a guest rarely seen on a saddle to a fun event that aims to get parents, staff and children cycling.

Pupils at Beam Primary School in Oval Road North, Dagenham, were joined by Jon Cruddas, MP for Dagenham and Rainham, at on March 23.

The politician showed off his own skills on a sporty BMX bike.

Beam Primary is one of more than 100 schools in London and 1,200 UK-wide to spend the last three weeks competing against each other to get the most pupils, parents and teachers cycling or scooting to school.

The Big Pedal is the UK’s biggest schools cycling event led by charity Sustrans.

Mr Cruddas said the school had made a real effort and the enthusiasm they had shown was testament to their hard work.

“Hopefully, the fun they have had over the last three weeks will inspire even more pupils to cycle the school journey regularly, and feel healthier for it. It’s a great habit to get into.”