MORE than 27,000 players have clocked up 154,000 miles around Swindon during this year's Beat the Street.

And double points are up for grabs for anybody visiting Beat Boxes during commuting hours over the next few days.

The incentive is a perk of Go Travel week, where people are encouraged to think about walking or cycling to work or school rather than taking the car.

Double points will be won if players scan their fobs or cards from 7am to 9am and from 3pm to 6pm every weekday until Tuesday. 

Beat the Street is an interactive game that encourages teams to walk, cycle, run, scoot and roll to win prizes such as trophies, books and sports equipment. It aims to get families out of the house and exercising together while doing something fun.

Players scan fobs or cards over Beat Boxes to score points and the further they travel, the more points they receive for their community or school team.

Haydonleigh Primary School currently tops the leaderboard, with St Francis Primary School and East Wichel Primary School and Nursery in second and third place. 

The council’s cabinet member for adults and health Brian Ford said: “We are really enjoying seeing people getting out and playing the game.

“It’s great to see people of all ages making the most of Beat the Street and incorporating an hour of exercise into their daily routines. 

“As well as having a positive benefit on our health, leaving the car at home and choosing to walk, scoot, wheel, cycle or run.”

Jenny Hulse from Bridlewood Primary School said: “The children are very excited to be playing Beat the Street once more.

“We have started our Tuesday night Beat the Street Club, where 45 children have been busy tapping Beat Boxes for an hour after school.” 

The game, which was first rolled out in 2018, is supposed to reduce congestion around schools, improve air quality and connect people to their green spaces.

It is free and open to people of all ages. The initiative was organised by Intelligent Health, Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire and Swindon Sport and Swindon Healthy Schools. 

Players can clock up points until October 27.