ESPA employees received a £150 donation for claiming top spot in Sustrans’ Wear Moving Commuter Challenge.

The ESPA team won their category in the competition, which encouraged car users to take healthier, greener and cheaper options for their commute.

Prizes were also offered to individual employees who made the switch to foot, cycle or public transport for their journey to work.

Throughout the four week challenge incentives were on offer to those that took part and changed their travel behaviour. The top prize for an individual was a new bike, but there are also weekly prizes for a range of active days out across the city.

Wear Moving is a Public Health initiative to get people travelling by sustainable means: people who regularly get about by bike are healthier, and happier, not least of all because of savings that can be made in terms of time and money.

Lucy Fenwick, Sustrans’ Workplace Officer for Sunderland, said: “The Commuter Challenge is a fun way to get people to think about how they travel to work with a bit of friendly competition thrown in to the mix.

“Cycling or walking to work can be a great way to incorporate more physical activity in to your daily routine which can have many health benefits. Travelling by bike or on foot can be quicker and save money especially for shorter journeys under 5 miles.