Five Thanet schools have been recognised for their commitment to improving the environment by removing car journeys from the road.

They were presented with certificates for their efforts at a glittering KM Walk to School Awards ceremony.

The top new walking bus in Thanet was at Birchington Primary, which has never missed a day.

Simon Dolby, chairman of the KM Charity Team, which runs the KM Walk to School schemes, said: "Birchington's bus has kept on rolling thanks to continued persistence and support from participating parents, the enduring involvement of a minimum of nine children and the commitment and backing of the local community officer, who has been involved in road safety assessments."

School caretaker Barry Sussex from St Joseph's Primary in Broadstairs was the top member of staff for the district, while the volunteer award went to Sarah Davies at Monkton Primary School.

Chilton Primary in Ramsgate was the best Walk on Wednesday (WOW) School in Thanet, taking 1,779 school run car journeys off the road in terms one and two.

The top Walking Bug school was Northdown Primary in Cliftonville, with children aware of the health and environmental benefits of walking and enjoy the social side too.

Children give many reasons for taking part including keeping fit, reducing carbon dioxide emissions, saving energy and the world.

Guests at the awards night included schools, parents and sponsors and they were entertained by X Factor finalist Ben Mills.

Mr Dolby said the event was a great start to the KM Charity team's 10th birthday year.

He thanked all those whose support had helped to make KM Walk to School what it is today and praised Veolia Environmental Services whose sponsorship made the awards night possible and specialist media company Ground:zero Productions Limited, who made it an evening to remember.

• As well as the KM Group, the Walking Bus, which is a KCC-led initiative, is sponsored by Denne Construction, Bel UK, Ringway, Veolia Environmental Services, Eurostar, AXA PPP healthcare and the Co-operative. For information on making the walk to school cool visit www.kmwalktoschool.co.uk or call 0844 2640292