Lollipop staff 'scared' by swerving drivers

Middlesbrough Council said crossing patrol officers were being routinely ignored by drivers (file photo)

Inconsiderate drivers are leaving lollipop staff scared to step out in to the road, a council has claimed.

Middlesbrough Council said drivers were "regularly" failing to stop at crossings as the authority also urged motorists to park safely near schools.

A spokesman said lives were being put at risk and fines of up to £1,000 could be given to any driver failing to stop for a school crossing patrol officer.

One lollipop lady who works in the town said: "We need drivers to behave responsibly before someone gets seriously injured or worse."

The crossing patrol officer, who did not want to be named, said dangerous drivers were putting her at risk "every afternoon" and cars and bikes would "swerve" around her.

A council spokesman said its lollipop staff "regularly" reported "feeling scared to step out on to the road due to drivers failing to stop".

Middlesbrough Council has also warned drivers about illegal parking near schools

The council's road safety team also warned parents against bad parking outside of schools and said those stopping on zig-zag lines could face a £100 fine.

Peter Gavigan, the council’s executive member for environment, said: “Parking like this near schools is selfish and inconsiderate, and there’s no excuse for it.

“The markings near schools are there for a reason, and parking on top of them puts lives at risk.

“I’d urge drivers to park responsibly and legally – if you don’t you will be prosecuted.”