A special bus with neither wheels or seats is launching a new service in West Mersea.

All aboard! Mersea Island School pupils climb aboard their new school bus. Picture: ADRIAN RUSHTON 40533-2

The vehicle is, in fact, a walking bus of accompanied youngsters making their way to Mersea Island School in Barfield Road.

Starting this week, pupils from nursery age upwards will follow the route from East Road, via Oakwood Avenue, Queen Anne Drive and Kingsland Road, collecting others as they go.

Three trained parents, who have been through police checks, act as drivers and conductors.

Barbara Spriggs, scheme co-ordinator and deputy headteacher, said the scheme would cater for up to 20 children initially, but could be extended if the school attracted more parent volunteers.

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Published Tuesday, January 18, 2005

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