Canterbury pupils passionate about putting an end to air pollution have put politicians in the hot seat.

School councils and eco committees from eight schools bundled into Canterbury City Council’s chambers for the launch of a green travel drive to cut car use. The KM Green Champions campaign calls for youngsters to take an active role in promoting eco-friendly transport and make a positive difference to their city.

The youngsters questioned a panel of experts on how walk to school schemes can benefit the environment, families and children simply by reducing the number of cars on the road.

The schools in attendance were Wickhambreaux CE Primary, Hampton Primary, Chartham Primary, Blean Primary, Canterbury Primary, St John’s CE Primary, Pilgrims’ Way Primary and St Joseph’s Catholic Primary.

Canterbury councillor Rosemary Doyle said: "The children were very keen to talk about the problems caused by careless parking outside their schools, and were well aware of the dangers to health caused by air pollution. They were all happy to ask questions and provide possible solutions. It was a pleasure to see such enthusiasm.

“A number of schools from all parts of the district came for the conference and I'm sure the campaign will have an effect on changing how children get to school and driver behaviour.”

Green Champions, which is part of the KM Walk to School initiative, puts youngsters in the driving seat to trumpet green travel. They complete tasks such as poster competitions to encourage families to leave the car at home and walk or cycle to school instead.

Groups of pupils that come up with the best Green Champion ideas can earn limited edition t-shirts.

The campaign is supported by Kent County Council, Ashford Borough Council, Canterbury City Council, Maidstone Borough Council, Medway Council, Thanet District Council, Mini Babybel, Countrystyle Recycling, Specsavers, Three R’s Teacher Recruitment, Eurostar, Chaucer Foundation, Southern Water, Orbit South, Golding Homes, Jelf Insurance Brokers, Leeds Castle, Independent Music Productions and Whitefriars shopping area.

Schools wanting to find out more about Green Champions or to register for KM Walk to School schemes including Walk on Wednesday (WOW), Active Bug or Green Footsteps should visit www.kmwalktoschool.co.uk or call 0844 264 0291.