PUPILS now have a safer journey to school after a new crossing was completed.

A zebra crossing has been installed in St John’s Road, Colchester, following a four-year campaign by children at St John’s Primary School.

The battle was spearheaded by Hannah Young, a former pupil at the primary school.

More than 60 classmates supported her petition, raising concerns about the dangers of the road which borders the school’s side entrance.

Hannah, who now attends the Gilberd School, also won the support of local councillors, Ray Gamble and Paul Smith.

Together, they persuaded Essex County Council to carry out traffic surveys and prioritise the scheme in its list of work.

Work started last month and has now been completed, to the delight of parents, staff and youngsters.

Angela Konarzewski, headteacher at St John’s Primary School, said: “We are very pleased the zebra crossing will ensure the children are able to cross the road safely.

“We have had concerns in the past about whether cars come too quickly from the roundabout.

“Now they will have to slow down. It’s great people who make decisions in terms of provision actually listen to children’s views.”

Councillor Paul Smith said the crossing project was a testament to people power. He said: “It is a fine example of community involvement and it is important the suggestions came from schoolchildren.

“After all, they are the people who make the most use of it.

“I would encourage anyone else who has ideas for improving road safety in their area to contact their local councillors to see what can be done.”