WALKING is at the top of the agenda for workers, pupils and students during May.

From Monday to Friday next week employees are being encouraged to turn their back on transport and walk to work and the following week youngsters will be burning the calories during Walk to School Week which runs from May 19-23.

Workers can record their hiking efforts on www.walktoworkweek.org.uk, and see how many calories they have burned and how much they have helped reduce the carbon dioxide level.

Last year 25,000 logged details of their treks to and from work, burning off the calorific equivalent of 10,000 muffins.

Tony Armstrong, chief executive of event organiser Living Streets, said: “Whether it’s walking all or part of the journey to work, stepping out of the office for a lunchtime walk, or getting off the bus a few stops earlier on your way home, walking is a free and easy way to work more exercise into your daily routine.”