Free maps for schoolchildren

Pupils aged 11 can get a free map of their local area simply by getting their head teachers to ask for one.

Ordnance Survey says every child in England, Wales and Scotland in Year 7 is entitled to an one of its Explorer maps, each worth £6.99.

The map is then free for them to keep for their own use.

In Scotland, where schools have already begun the autumn term, more than 20,000 maps have been given out to Primary 7 children at 650 schools.

In England the Education Secretary, Charles Clarke, said: "Geography plays a vital role in helping children to understand the environment in which they are living.

"Children will benefit enormously from learning about how familiar places in their lives, such as their home or school, form part of the many diverse communities in this country."

'Amazing take-up'

Ordnance Survey believes about 800,000 children are eligible but says it is prepared to print up to a million maps to meet demand.

Its director general, Vanessa Lawrence, said: "We want to help children experience both the fun and value of geography.

"Despite the appeal of the latest computer games, the swift take-up of this initiative in Scotland has been amazing and we expect the trend to be repeated in England and Wales."

Schools which want to take part should register via the Ordnance Survey website by October 10.

The scheme ran for the first time last year.