A PRIMARY school have joined a campaign to tackle air pollution.

Pupils and teachers at Leigh Central Primary School are working have been working with Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) to raise awareness of the dangers of keeping the engine running.

Harmful gases which pollutes the air are produced by vehicle exhausts that are linked to increases in asthma, allergies, heart and lung disease and cancer.

Deputy head teacher Richard Houghton said: “It is great the latest campaign has been launched from Leigh Central and we hope this important message can be spread further so our children’s health and the environment can benefit from better air quality.

“If everyone can make one simple change and switch off their engines when stationary this can collectively make a big difference.”

A study has found switching off the engine when at a standstill can reduce air pollution during peak travel hours by up to 30 per cent.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said: “If we could see the invisible exhaust fumes we all breathe in every day, I am sure we would be horrified.

“Leaving your engine ticking over is something we’re all guilty of.

“You might worry it is a waste of fuel to restart the engine, or that your car heating will run cold if you switch off.

“Air pollution is one of the most important challenges currently facing us all.

“It makes financial sense, environmental sense and good health sense to switch off and I hope this campaign drives that important message home.”