Be Careful What You Wish For, Henry...

Worried children at a primary school in the most polluted area of a community have appealed to parents and carers to help them cut damaging fumes by walking and biking and not keeping vehicles running.

Out of the blue? They all just decided this off their own bat? 

Head boy Henry King said: “Year six students at Bedale Primary School have been getting increasingly worried. This issue is going to get bigger if we don’t act now. We can’t do it alone, we need your help.

“Our concern over this problem was created during a scientific lesson with Dr Matt Sawyer about the human body. He told us about the effect air pollution has on our bodies and we were really shocked. Health problems like asthma, heart and lung problems.”

Ah! Of course not. Yet more indoctrination.  

“We want none of this to happen to our students. We were shown a map colour coded to the worst areas of air pollution in Bedale. Firby Road and Benkhill Drive were a deep red; our school was surrounded by pollution. This is not good for our students' health. Here is how you can help.

“When you are in your car, don’t have it running, all of the exhaust fumes go into one place. Also, by not using your car, money on fuel and possibly someone's life could be saved. Walking, scooting and biking places is healthier for you and the environment. We can save the environment, one step at a time.”

OK, Henry. No more being driven to after school activities in Mummy's Volvo. No more crisps and yoghurt in the larder and fridge when you get back, either, Mummy's not allowed to go to the shops to replenish supplies.  

Oh, your Playstation isn't working? Well, on your bike with you to the repair shop!

You're a bit chilly up in your bedroom? Sorry, can't turn up the heating. That's polluting. 

What's that, your favourite rugby shirt is dirty and the other players are making fun of you? Oh, well, that eco-setting on the washing machine doesn't really work so well, I guess. Never mind. It's for the good of the planet, isn't it?