Printer friendly page

'Stop means stop' launches in Thurrock

Thurrock Council recently launched the Stop Means Stop driver awareness campaign, which is running across the eastern region. The campaign targets drivers who fail to stop for school crossing patrols (SCPs).

Local authorities and police are concerned about the risk to SCPs, children and members of the public when drivers fail to stop. Reported incidents have resulted in prosecutions - with drivers receiving points on their licence, substantial fines and in some cases loss of their licence.

The top five complaints from patrol staff were about drivers who:

· Failed to stop when instructed to do so

· Drove around the patrol while they were in the road crossing children

· Used abusive language

· Threatened the patrol with physical violence

· Intimidated the patrol and children by revving their engines and creeping forward to try and force them to cross the road more quickly.

"The job of crossing children safely over busy roads at peak times already has its risks, and inconsiderate drivers or those ignorant of the law compound existing dangers," said Denise Langan , road safety manager.

Parents and other motorists are being asked to show their support by displaying a campaign sticker in their car.

For further information contact Denise Langan on 01375 413876, or dlangan@thurrock.gov.uk