CHILDREN at a Chester academy are trekking to Tokyo as part of a virtual challenge designed to keep them fit and motivated.

PE teacher at St Martin’s Academy Shona Valentine set children the substantial task of collectively running, walking or cycling the 9,490.3km from Chester to Tokyo.

The active pupils log the distances they contribute on an online form, and the miles are quickly totting up!

Miss Valentine said: “I set up the challenge to encourage families to keep moving during lockdown. I hope having something to work towards will inspire children to get involved with the team effort.

“I worked out how far we would need to travel to Tokyo, and created an online for children to easily log how far they have travelled. Each time they enter a distance it takes it off our running total.

“Staff are also able to contribute as well, so it keeps us all moving too!

“Although the children are still doing online PE lessons, I feel the cardiovascular benefits of getting out in the fresh air and going for a walk, run or cycle are by far superior to anything we can do over Zoom calls."

St Martin’s Academy, rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted, is a primary school situated in Hoole, Chester. It is one of eight schools run by North West Academies Trust (NWAT) and is the most over-subscribed school in Cheshire West.

For more information about St Martin’s Academy, email admin@stmartinsacademychester.co.uk or call 01244 566166.