Safety danger for children
Former lollipop lady Ann Kitson with parent Mick Clark on Soothill Lane. (d07021215)
A SOOTHILL parent is calling on Kirklees Council to help make getting to school safer for children.
Lydgate School has been without a crossing patrol, or lollipop person, since Ann Kitson quit the post in November 2010.
The News reported at the time how Mrs Kitson was fed up of the abuse from drivers who refused to stop to let children cross Soothill Lane.
She says she misses the children and the job but won’t return because of drivers’ attitudes.
Kirklees Council, which is responsible for the role, has advertised the vacancy but no-one has taken it up.
A spokeswoman said the position was proving difficult to fill.
It means children have had no appointed help to get them to and from school over the busy main road for 15 months.
Parent Mick Clark has had enough.
“Last week a child was inches from being knocked down, and it worried me that soon a child is going to get very badly hurt, or worse.”
Mr Ryan, who has 10-year-old twins in year six at the school, said if no crossing patrol could be appointed, perhaps the council could look at traffic calming measures.
In a letter to Batley MP Mike Wood, he said: “There is a frenzy for parking, and the inconsiderate driving and parking of parents’ cars collecting their children only heightens the dangers.”
Mr Wood said he would speak with the council’s education chief officer to see how the role could be better advertised, and how the area could be made safer for children.
Lydgate headteacher Judith Hopwood said: “It’s really disappointing that the post has not been filled.
“We do talk to the children about road safety but it’s a very dangerous junction and we need somebody there.”
To apply for the role contact Kirklees road safety team on 01484 221166.
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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