A CAMPAIGNING councillor has urged people to consider becoming crossing guards after a crash which put two people in hospital.
Lesley Scott-Boutell says a crossing in London Road, Stanway, has been without a school crossing patrol for about 18 months.
The crossing is used regularly by pupils at Stanway Primary School.
“It’s a well-used crossing because lots of students who live north of the A12 walk to school via Lucy Lane South and then cross in London Road,” she explained.
But with the vacancy for a school crossing patrol officer remaining unfilled, the Stanway councillor fears more accidents could occur in the busy road.
Ms Scott-Boutell’s call for people to apply for the job comes after a crash which saw emergency services, including an air ambulance, rush to London Road at about noon on Monday.
One man with “serious” injuries was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, while another casualty was taken to Colchester Hospital.
The concerned councillor said: “This incident was nothing to do with the school crossing patrol because of the time of day but it just goes to show the extent of the problems pedestrians face in London Road.”
Essex County Council is currently advertising school crossing patrol officer vacancies at 38 locations across the county, including ten in Colchester.
The authority says it is looking for “punctual and reliable” people who enjoy engaging with the public and can commit to working 7.5 hours a week at the start and end of the school day.
Ms Scott-Boutell said: “The job raises road users’ awareness because it’s highly visible and you can see it from a fair distance.
“If someone is in place, it increases the safety for pedestrians. You can’t put a price on road safety.
“It’s a crying shame no-one is in the role currently because the funding is there, but no-one’s coming forward.”
She added she is happy to have an informal chat with anyone who might be interested in applying for the role.
The crossing is also used by some secondary school pupils walking to and from Stanway School.
More information about the vacancy can be found at workingforessex.com.
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