So popular has it been, that users have now racked up over 35,000 miles of activity since January by walking and cycling in the Bridgwater area.  This is equal to over one and a half million calories being burnt and a potential saving of 14 tonnes of CO2e.

BetterPoints, a smartphone app, joined forces with The Bridgwater Way to offer the local communities and businesses in Bridgwater and North Petherton a fun way to earn rewards for walking, cycling, running & scooting.  A number of challenges have taken place including the recent Workplace Challenge and the successful Easter Egg Hunt that took place earlier this year.  Currently running until 1 September is the Virtual Summer Treasure Hunt – more information can be found here.

The free app has been designed to motivate and incentivise physical activity and active travel. Residents can log their activities and earn rewards. They can even see how far they have travelled, how long it took, calories burnt & CO2e saved compared to driving a car.

Cllr John Woodman, Cabinet Member for Highways at Somerset County Council said: “This is a fantastic achievement and shows just how successful a scheme like this can be.

“Driving is not always the quickest or most convenient way to travel so by being encouraged to try out different modes of transport such as walking or cycling; people can save time, money and lead healthier lifestyles too.

“It’s a fantastic achievement, well done to all that have taken part so far and I hope to see lots of you getting involved in the Summer Treasure Hunt.”

Supported by Sedgemoor District Council and funded by EDF Energy, The Bridgwater Way is focussed on helping to keep Bridgwater moving as the town goes through a period of significant growth and investment. This includes investment in new roads and improvements to existing roads and junctions, as well as miles of new and improved routes for pedestrians and cyclists. It also offers active travel initiatives to make local trips and getting to work or school easier and safer.

For more information visit: www.thebridgwaterway.co.uk