A GROUP of school children will walk to school dressed as some of their favourite storybook characters this week.

Pupils from The Rydal Academy, formerly Dodmire School, in Darlington, will be walking to school as characters from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on Friday after winning a council-run competition.

The MEGA Friday scheme encourages families to leave the car behind on Fridays and walk, cycle or scoot to school.

The Rydal Academy pupils will be joined by Willy Wonka and will be given the chance to dress up as one of the characters.