Step out and feel fitter, Gavin tells school pupils

A Renfrewshire politician has thrown his support behind the Daily Mile challenge for school kids.

Gavin Newlands, SNP candidate for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, believes the fitness challenge encourages youngsters to walk a mile each day.

And he wants to see more schools in Renfrewshire adopt the scheme.

He said:“It is a fantastic achievement that over 1,000 primary schools across Scotland have recognised the benefits of the Daily Mile challenge – a great example of innovation in Scottish education that has gained international acclaim.

“I am delighted that several primary schools and nurseries in Renfrewshire are already taking part in the initiative and nearly 4,000 pupils have already benefitted from it.

“However, more can be done to ensure more Renfrewshire children are involved in the Daily Mile challenge.

“I firmly believe that all primary schools should be participating in this great programme.

“Not only is there a wealth of positive benefits in the short-term – the Daily Mile challenge also encourages children to pick up healthy habits that will hopefully stay with them for life.

“I truly believe that doing sport can provide multiple benefits to people’s physical and mental health and I hope every child will soon have the opportunity to take part in this initiative.”

He added:“If re-elected on June 8, I will keep working on giving every child in Renfrewshire the chance to take part in the Daily Mile challenge.”