A GROUP of Port schoolgirls are using pedal power to push for a greener society.

The fifth year pupils at Port Glasgow High successfully secured a grant to set up a bikes-to-borrow scheme, train primary school children in cycling proficiency and offer a maintenance programme.

Their school is the first in Inverclyde to be awarded Cycle Friendly School status.

Now the six girls behind it are planning to put their plans into top gear as they tackle social inequality and meet the need for cleaner, healthier transport.

Proud head teacher Alan Dick said: “I am delighted that the school has received this award in recognition of our commitment to developing cycling within the school and our community.

“Lots of credit goes to the young people who are leading this initiative.

“I look forward to seeing their hard work rewarded by our community rising to the challenge.” The girls — Danielle Turner, Chantelle Kelly, Demi Kerrigan, Brogan Shaw, Caitlyn Farren and Lauren McCallum — all took part in a Cycling Scotland camp with their PE teacher Emma Foster last year.

They are training to be sports leaders within the school and decided to get involved with the cycling project.

Teacher Emma Foster added: “One of the project aims is to reduce social inequality within the school and local community and as part of this they are hoping to eventually offer cycle maintenance drop-in sessions at the school as well as using their bikes to loan out to the local community.” The pupils have now purchased seven new hybrid bikes along with safety and maintenance equipment to allow them to get their initiative off the ground.

The pupils will also take part in bikeability training at primary schools.

Demi, 15, said: “It was great to take part in the camp and we are looking forward to working with the primary schools. I’ve really enjoyed learning new skills.” Classmate Chantelle added: “It is a great achievement to be the first school to get this award.” Lauren added: “It was good to learn about road safety and be able to pass it on to primary schoolchildren.

“We all really enjoyed taking part in the camp.” The girls are now looking for support from anyone who can offer time, expertise or enthusiasm and help with marketing, maintenance, fundraising, sponsorship or any other skills that may come in useful.

For further information contact Port Glasgow High School on 715200.