A SCHOOL is encouraging families to take part in a 'park and stride' event in a bid ease congestion during the morning drop-off.

Stanway Fiveways Primary School, in Winstree Road, is participating in the Eco Race, which begins on Monday.

During the the three-week event, parents are being asked to park at the Co-op, in Dugard Avenue and 'stride' with their children to school.

Store manager Rob Miller has given the plans the green light.

Families will be met at the shop by school staff as well as Aba Pifferi, from health charity Sustrans and Colchester councillor for Stanway Lesley Scott-Boutell, who has worked with the school in a bid to resolve traffic problems.

During the three-week scheme, each child getting to school other than by car will receive a sticker.

Children with a full sheet of stickers will be entered into a prize draw to win vouchers at Smyths, in Tollgate.