DOUG Johnston’s letter supporting the benefits of children and their carers walking to school (The Argus, Nov 11) beat me to it.

Our family have now lived without a car for six months and it forced us to review how we get around and it has removed the temptation to use the car for short local journeys.

Statistics show that many local car trips are two miles or under.

The twice daily mile long walk to and from school has been much enjoyed by my son and myself and I would encourage all parents and carers who have the option, to consider doing the same.

We are kitted out with waterproofs, high-vis clothing and umbrellas for the occasional rain shower and find it the easiest way to get to school on time, often getting there quicker than the cars that travel the same distance.

Whilst I appreciate it isn’t always convenient or practical for everyone it’s clear that there are a number of drivers who simply can’t be bothered to walk the often short distance to school and then clog up the roads leading to more pollution and poor health.

I’ve witnessed parents getting to school in the afternoon half an hour before closing to secure a nearby parking space (often on the cycle lane or at a bus stop) and then settle down with a cigarette and a magazine.

Like Doug, I’ll be doing everything I can to support Living Streets, a charity which campaigns on such issues.

Pete Gillman, Friar Walk, Brighton