LIPHOOK pupils are starting every day on the front foot after a new exercise path was installed in their school grounds.

The track has been dubbed the ‘daily mile’ and youngsters from Liphook Junior and Infant School will be able to stretch their legs on it every day.

Children will be encouraged to run or walk a mile to improve their health and well being.

Executive headteacher Michel Frost said: “We are really keen for our children and adults to enjoy our superb outside space and appreciate the importance of exercise, both for their physical and mental well-being.

“We’re encouraging healthy living – less sitting inside and watching TV or playing computer games. We need to ensure our children, their parents, our staff and the local community think about their lifestyle and running or walking a mile a day we know can improve quality of lives.”

The 240-metre artificial turf track was paid for in part by a £1,000 grant from Liphook district councillor Bill Mouland.

“Liphook has some great schools and the three EHDC councillors are always happy to help out with projects which otherwise might not get funded,” he told The Herald.

“The daily mile is a fantastic facility which will help children keep fit and healthy. “The fact it has been opened by our MP Damian Hinds is another milestone in itself.”

East Hampshire’s Tory MP, who is the Conservative government’s Education Secretary, officially opened the track on Friday. He said: “Initiatives such as the daily mile can help pupils to achieve the 60 active minutes each day recommended by the UK chief medical officers.

“It’s a great idea and I’m delighted to see pupils taking to it with such enthusiasm.”