WHAT'S the quickest way to get from Morecambe to Lancaster - bus, bike, train or car? On Monday a 'commuter challenge' will discover the answer with a rush-hour race between Morecambe's Central Library and Lancaster Town Hall. The event has been organised by North Lancashire Transport 2000 and is part of 'Green Transport Week.'

Said local activist Pascal Desmond: "The commuter challenge is a practical demonstration of all alternative methods of transport. Morecambe and Lancaster are quickly succumbing to the vicious circle of busy roads that are so dangerous for pedestrians that people are afraid to walk and, as a result, go by car leading to even busier roads with traffic jams and poor air quality."

The challenge is just one of a series of activities organised to persuade people to abandon their cars and will include exhibitions and public talks.

Added Pascal: "The vicious circle puts people off walking. We need to change it into a kind circle with safe walking routes where people are happy and relaxed about walking, where there are fewer cars about and results in less and less pollution."

On Friday at 1pm Prof John Whitelegg will talk about 'Sustainable Transport' at the Storey Institute, there will be a public display all next week at Morecambe's Central Library and Dr Jon Barry of Lancaster University will talk about 'Sustainable Economies' on Friday, June 20. Surveys reveal that people are walking less and less, preferring to jump into the cars even for short journeys. It is estimated that one third of all journeys made by car are less than one mile, ideal for walking. "Walking is healthy, non-polluting and free. It can be easily combined with a train or bus journey, providing much needed exercise. Both the Government and the British Medical Association recommend a brisk 15 minute walk every day which makes walking to work ideal."

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