Pupil’s design will encourage drivers to slow down

A PUPIL from South Wales will have her design displayed on road signs across Wales to encourage drivers to slow down help reduce pollution.

Miley Fletcher, a Year 7 pupil at Bedwas High School, won the competition at a workshop organised by the Welsh Government focusing on air pollution sources and the impact they have on health.

As part of the workshop, pupils were challenged to design a road sign to encourage motorists to reduce their speed to help make the air we breathe cleaner.

Year 8 pupil Thomas Lukins came joint second.

Miley’s winning sign will be produced and installed at locations across the country where the environmental 50mph speed limit is in place.

Miley said: “I was over the moon and really excited and happy when I found out that I had won.

“I wanted to create a design that was short and snappy, and not too distracting for drivers, but also raise awareness of cleaner air at the same time. I feel my design does this and I am really proud of my achievement.”

Miley has received a £50 voucher, and runner-up Thomas received £25. Bedwas High was one of 40 schools to take part in the initiative which was delivered by Engineering Education Scheme Wales/STEM Cymru.

Councillor Philippa Leonard, Caerphilly council cabinet member for environmental health, commented: “Air pollution is a national concern and unfortunately we all contribute to the problem in some way.

“I’m glad to see schools getting involved with raising awareness and hopefully this will encourage everyone to make changes in their day-to-day life to help reduce air pollutants and improve air quality.

“Congratulations to Miley and Thomas for their success in the national competition, the designs are fantastic and both should be very proud of their achievements.”