POLICE are monitoring school crossing patrols after reports of drivers ignoring lollipop attendants An officer was posted to Lawford Primary School, in Long Road, on Friday, after staff raised concerns.

The situation has been mirrored at other sites across Colchester and Tendring.

One lollipop lady claims motorists have knocked her down while she is on patrol in Colchester and a warden at a crossing in Tendring reported 15 near-misses in one week.

Frank Belgrove, chairman of the Tendring Rural South Neighbourhood Action Panel, said: “There is most certainly an increase.

“A number of the incidents have been in rural locations on long straight stretches of road, although I have been told of similar things happening across Colchester and Tendring.

“It’s such an incredibly dangerous thing to do.

“I think a lot of it goes unreported. Some are low speed where the vehicle creeps past but others are not.

“I have been invited to come along and witness this first hand, which I will do.”

Inspector Chris Willis of Essex Police said an officer attended and discretely monitored driver behaviour outside Lawford Primary School, and he said no-one broke the law.

He added: “We would appeal to drivers using the stretch of road at the relevant times to allow plenty of time, both for their journey, and to stop safely when required.”

Parents who use crossing patrols in both Colchester and Tendring are worried the actions of dangerous drivers could lead to crossing staff walking away from the job.

Sian Levoi, 31, walks to pick up her child from Lawford Primary School with her two daughters and fellow mum Helen Troman, 34.

She said: “I like having the crossing person there.”