A GROUP of parents have launched a campaign for a pedestrian crossing outside Potters Gate School after witnessing “daily” near misses involving their children.

An online petition calling for a crossing in Falkner Road has already mustered more than 250 signatures and the group has also set up a Facebook page ’Road safety Farnham’ to gather support, as well as appearing on Eagle Radio.

One of the parents behind the campaign, mum-of-two Miriam Forster, said: “A member of the school staff was knocked over by a car in July, and there are constant near misses in Falkner Road during the school term.

“In the last few weeks alone I’ve seen cars have to slam on their brakes to avoid hitting a child and others reversing into children. Pedestrians often can’t see cars approaching because of parked cars, and drivers are very impatient.

“It’s not just cars either, and more and more big trucks are using Falkner Road to avoid the town centre. That will only get worse with all the housing being built here and something has to be done.”

Despite the history of near misses, Miriam said there are no signs in Falkner Road warning motorists of the school and currently there is no public sector funding for a lollipop lady.

The parents have contacted Surrey County Council and a highways engineer is set to inspect the site and report back to the council by the end of this month. They have also sought the support of the Mayor of Farnham and county councillor, Pat Frost.

Miriam continued: “We’ve asked Surrey County Council for a permanent crossing, but anything would help – signs, slower speed limits, speed bumps etc. Most schools have a 20mph zone these days so I don’t see why we shouldn’t?

“The new headteacher [Jayne Venables] was amazed at the lack of signs when she joined the school, but Potters Gate doesn’t have the funds to pay for a crossing or even a lollipop lady itself.

“Traffic is getting worse and the council has to realise that something needs to be done before a tragedy occurs.

“All the Potters Gate parents are supportive, but it’s vital that we get the support of the community. The more signatures we have the more pressure we can put on Surrey Highways.”

To sign the group’s petition, visit the website www.change.org and search for ’Please put a crossing on Falkner Road!’