Parents and teachers in Writtle fear a tragic road accident involving a young child because the village schools no longer have a crossing patrol.

Writtle Junior and Infant schools have been without a patrol since the February half-term holiday, and fears are increasing about the risk posed to children.

In the past, a school crossing patrol officer has always seen children over a busy junction at Lodge Road and Margaretting Road. When a long-serving patrol woman was taken ill and subsequently left, temporary officers filled the post for a while. Since half-term, however, no cover has been provided.

Karen Lawrence, a parent governor at Writtle Junior School, said: "Parents are extremely worried about the situation. We are wondering if it will take a child to be knocked down before something is done about it.

"The post has been advertised, but no one wants to take it because the pay is so appalling, at £4 a day, to come out in all weather.

"The congestion outside the school is becoming worse as parents are trying to park so that they can see their children across the road."

Gwyneth Williams, head teacher of Writtle Junior School, said: "The traffic outside the school is horrendous and the worst case scenario is that a child might be involved in an accident.

"We do as much as we can to emphasise safety, but children do not always have a full perception of danger."

Essex County Council school crossing patrol manager Keith Welham said: "We are doing all we can and recently carried out a leaflet drop. We have also been trying to put in a relief crossing patrol when we can, but it is not always possible.

"The vacancy has been advertised since January 20 and, although the hourly rate is quite reasonable, it does involve 10 short sessions each week.

"We are suffering because of the competition from other employers such as supermarkets who may offer lower hourly rates but can offer indoor work where people may be able to earn as much over a couple of shifts."

Anyone who might be interested in taking on the job in Writtle can contact Mr Welham on 01245 437592.

<LI. Crossing concern: Children making their way to Writtle Junior School without a crossing patrol.

By Anne Fitzgerald

Reporter's e-mail: anne.fitzgerald@essex-chronicle.co.uk

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