PRIMARY school pupils in a borough have been equipped with an activity pack to encourage them to wash their hands properly to avoid bugs.

Blackburn with Darwen's public health director Abdul Razaq leaders is using this week''s 'Hand Hygiene Day' to remind children and their parents of the importance of handwashing to prevent illness.

The borough council has shared learning resources with primary schools for teachers to talk about the benefits of handwashing to prevent getting poorly with their pupils.

An activity pack contains colouring sheets, puzzles and fun classroom activities to help young pupils learn how to wash their hands thoroughly and understand why it’s so important.

Mr Razaq said: "With Hand Hygiene Day occurring this week, it’s a timely reminder of the importance and effectiveness of something so simple – washing our hands.

"Handwashing with soap is the most effective way to prevent the spread of viruses that can cause infections, including Covid.

"I would urge parents to help their children to get into a healthy habit of washing their hands regularly - particularly before meals, after using the toilet, and when arriving home.

"The NHS website has a step-by-step guide to effective handwashing."