Children at a Bradford school are campaigning for a new lollipop lady after they were shocked by the results of a traffic survey.

The five-year-old pupils at Thackley Primary School decided to conduct their own study as part of a project on making their school a safer place.

They were amazed to discover that in one 15-minute period more than 200 cars, buses and lorries passed by the school on Town Lane and Leeds Road.

Class teacher Rachel Gresswell said the children were staggered by the findings. "We were amazed. We went out at 2pm and we thought we had picked a quiet time."

The children thought about what they could do to make the roads safer for children and parents.

"One of the class came up with the bright idea of a lollipop lady," said Mrs Gresswell.

"We used to have one up until about a year ago and I know the position has been advertised, but the Council has not been able to find anyone."

The campaigning class took their case to ward Councillor Jeanette Sunderland, who says she is determined to press for better road safety on their behalf.

"They sent me a wonderful letter and super pictures of various lollipop people," she said. "The money is there to pay for one. We have to persuade someone to do the job now they have highlighted the problem."

She said she was impressed that such young children had recognised the safest solution by themselves rather than receiving letters from parents and teachers.

She added: "I suspect people think it's dangerous but there is training available and special clothing. Lollipop patrols are vital for getting the children to walk to school.."

Emily Crowley, five, said: "There are too many cars and buses on the road when we come to school and the lollipop lady will stop them for us".

Matthew Poulter, added: "We need one very badly." Anyone who wants to be the crossing warden should contact the school on (01274) 414437.

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