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Prizes for those who took part in scheme to reduce congestion

Press release issued: 13 September 2005

Organisations across the region, including the University of Bristol, will be rewarded for taking part in a scheme aimed at reducing congestion.

Organisations across the region, including the University of Bristol, will be rewarded for taking part in a scheme aimed at reducing congestion.

Some of those who took part in Jam Busting June this summer by swapping their car for a greener mode of transport, will receive their prizes at a special event to be held at the university on the eve of the start of European Mobility Week (Thursday 15 September).

The aim of Jam Busting June, thought to be the first scheme of its kind in the UK, was to provide an incentive to commuters to opt for more sustainable modes of transport to reduce pollution, congestion and promote healthier lifestyles.

Registered participants received one free entry to a prize draw for every three days they left their car at home and used an alternative sustainable mode of transport to get to work.

During June, over 1600 people, from nearly 60 different companies and organisations across the region, took part in the event which was organised by Bristol City Council in conjunction with neighbouring Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire councils.

In a joint statement, the four councils behind the scheme said: "We are delighted that Jam Busting June provided the impetus to encourage so many car users to change their commuting habits.

"Between them, participants travelled almost 350,000 miles using greener modes of transport which means over four tonnes of CO2 emissions were saved as a direct result of their participation in this event."

At the University of Bristol, 240 employees signed up to the scheme.

Jane Lorimer, who co-ordinated these entries said: "Jam Busting June highlighted the impact people's daily travel to work choices have on the environment.

"People were inspired to try something different for the month, be that cycling, walking or using public transport."

Each participant received a free prize draw entry for every three days they travelled by a greener mode of transport.

The star prize, a Pashley Paramount cycle was won by Kate Kinsler from the University of Bristol.

Nicola Latham, who won a bicycle donated by Pembury Cycles said: "At the time of the scheme I was receiving treatment from the university osteopath for an injury dating back to Easter.

"Cycling had been recommended by the osteopath as the only cardiovascular exercise I could do, so I saw Jam Busting June as an opportunity to sort myself out! I really enjoyed the challenge.

"The experience has highlighted to me even more the importance of easing congestion."

For more information about European Mobility Week, visit www.mobilityweek-europe.org

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