Schoolchildren and villagers in Norfolk made their pledges to lead more active lifestyles this year, just a few months before the Olympic torch is due to visit in the run-up to London 2012.

Pupils from seven schools gathered at Woodside Infant and Nursery School in Hethersett yesterday to be filmed pledging to cycle and jog more, among other resolutions, with the Olympic flame set to pass through the village in July prior to the start of the Games.

Villagers were also invited to record their vows before Active Norfolk's Pledge Pod, which will be turned into a video for the Active Norfolk website. The pledges will also be turned into a Pledge 2012 flag which will be displayed at events around the county, including Norwich City games at Carrow Road.

The Inspire Mark project Pledge 2012 is being run by Active Norfolk, which encourages sport participation in Norfolk, in association with Norfolk County Council and NHS Norfolk, while the Eastern Daily Press and BBC Radio Norfolk are supporting the initiative.

The Woodside pupils were joined by children from Hethersett Infant and Junior, Mulbarton Infant and Junior, Cringleford Primary and Little Melton schools and a special assembly was held on an Olympic and Pledge theme prior to the video sessions where the pupils were filmed in front of backdrops, including the Olympic stadium in Stratford and the cycling velodrome.

Sports activities were held throughout the day, including volleyball and basketball sessions, while representatives from Norwich City's Community Sports Foundation were on hand to teach football, while British Olympic long distance runner Paul Evans also provided advice.

Woodside school headteacher Nicola Cushion said: 'It has been absolutely brilliant. It is all about the community working together. We have invited families throughout the day to come and make a pledge.'

George Webster, one of the Active Norfolk representatives, said: 'Once people have made their pledge they can update their status to show what they have achieved. It is to ensure people are leading a healthier lifestyle after the Olympics.'

All the pledges, including photos and videos, can be viewed at www.pledge2012.com

dominic.bareham2@archant.co.uk