Street game with prizes back to get people active

A competition with prizes has returned to a town to encourage people to become more active by exploring their local area.

The Beat the Street game in Barnsley runs until 23 July and asks participants to walk, run or cycle between sensors called "beat boxes" which are installed on lamp-posts.

They can then record points on an app and be eligible to receive prizes.

The initiative is part of Barnsley Council's strategy to improve public health and wellbeing.

More than 9,000 people signed up to take part on the first day of the competition being launched.

Ed Clancy, active travel commissioner for South Yorkshire and a retired professional cyclist, said: "It's a great way to incentivise primarily young children.

"The last time we did this, Barnsley accumulated 130,000 miles, which is equivalent to going round the world five times, which is pretty impressive.

"Gamifying things is important. I think everyone enjoys a bit of friendly competition and I know there will be groups of children competing against each other."

Primary schools in the town have received participation packs, including cards and maps.

Members of the public can also find packs in local libraries, museums and the Glassworks reception.

Councillor James Higginbottom, cabinet spokesperson for environment and highways at Barnsley Council, said: "It's been proven that Beat the Street makes a real difference to getting kids active.

"The data shows we need to improve physical activity levels, we need to get more people out and about enjoying everything we have to offer in the borough."

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