School must have school crossing patrol

11.19.14pm GMT Mon 24th Nov 2008

Despite the best efforts of Beechfield School, parents and children, a child was hit by a car outside the school yesterday (Monday 24th November).

Susan Gaszczak, parent and eye witness said: 'There was nothing the parent or the driver could do. It was a freak accident. Since my daughter started at the school I have been concerned about the dangers of crossing Gammons Lane. I know the school have asked about a manned school crossing patrol but the county council has done nothing about it.'

Local councillor Fozia Qureshi said: 'This is an obvious accident hotspot: there are safety cameras facing in both directions outside the school. Having heard the reports as to what happened, it is extremely lucky that it the accident was not more severe. I wish the child, the family and the driver well.'

Sal Brinton, Parliamentary Candidate for Watford, said: 'The county council has to start listening to us. I know colleagues of mine have raised the issue of speed limits outside schools and they have been dismissed out of hand. We need solutions now. Not only does this school need a 20mph limit but it also needs a manned school crossing patrol.'