ROAD safety experts in Cambridgeshire are to launch a campaign on Monday to target drivers who fail to stop or are abusive to school crossing patrols.

Cambridgeshire County Council’s Road Safety Team have received reports that include motorists driving around patrols while they were on the road, using abusive language and threatening physical violence after being asked to stop.

There have also been 18 reports of motorists failing to stop and putting the lives of patrols and children at risk since April 1.

The failure to do so is an offence which can lead to a �1,000 fine and three penalty points.

Andy Swallowe, the council’s school crossing patrol service manager, said: “School crossing patrol officers play a vital role in ensuring school children are provided with a safe route to and from school.

“They should be able to do this without fear of intimidation and threatening behaviour from inconsiderate motorists.”

Authorities in the eastern region have organised the ‘Stop Means Stop’ campaign to remind drivers that they are legally bound by the 1984 Road Traffic Act to stop for school crossing patrols.

Police can issue a section 59 notice to anti-social drivers which can lead to their vehicle being seized.

“Last year in the UK there were 7,000 reported incidents which is totally unacceptable,” said Mr Swallowe.

“It is important for drivers to remember that if their car journey takes them through a patrolled area, they should allow extra time, slow down and be prepared and willing to stop when requested to do so by the school crossing patrol.”

The campaign will be promoted with 6,000 car stickers, leaflets and posters sent to all reception year children.

Car stickers to promote the campaign are available by phoning the council’s road safety team on 01480 375105.