MOST of us have been there – a few minutes before school drop-off time. There are lots of cars, lots of people, and everyone is in a rush. Throw into that mix a load of children, some half-asleep, some full of energy, with stressed parents trying to juggle siblings, and most of them juggling the stress of a job, which they are probably on their way to. Maybe even running late too. It’s a chaotic mix. 

That’s even before you take into consideration other normal people, who are equally under pressure to get to work in time, driving past. That’s where our school crossing patrols become a vital part of community life. 

The people who operate them are well-known, well-liked and respected, a cheery good morning, followed by a thank-you, makes the children’s passage into school just a little bit less stressful. Drivers know to stop, children know where to cross and parents have that little bit of extra support. They keep our children safe – and you can’t put a price on that.

The county council needs to protect this service.