Blaengarw school pupils on Zig Zag Patrol
The pupils of Blaengarw Primary School, Bridgend, have this morning carried out a patrol aimed at stopping vehicles parking on the schools zig zag lines. The school council members, Demi Ward (aged 10), Emily Richards (aged 10), Cian Johns (aged 10), and Will Jones (aged 7), who carried out the patrol, were accompanied by Bridgend County Borough Council Road Safety Officer Simon Ladbrook.
As part of the zig zag patrol operation, the children wore high visibility jackets, and handed out informative car air fresheners, and leaflets. In addition the pupils had created a giant banner featuring the slogan "Stay Clear, Children Are Near", with the lettering done in a striking red colour. The banner was, and will continue to be displayed on the school railings, where it can be clearly seen by drivers, and the Blaengarw community.
Cian Johns stated "On a typical school day there are usually a lot of cars that park on the zig zag lines, and this presents a danger to the children."
Emily Richards stated "It's been good to do work on road safety, and as a result of our patrols, and banner, no cars parked on the school's zig zags."
Demi Ward had a similar message for drivers, and stated "Usually people park on the zig zag lines, but this morning was different. I think the banner has worked in stopping dangerous parking."
The youngest member of the patrol, Will Jones, stated "People think they can park anywhere, and the lines are there for a reason, to make the roads safe for us children when we are going to school in the morning, and when it's time to go home."
Will Jones continues "I like the banner, and we decided to use red letters, as it will remind people of a red traffic light, to stop them parking."
The road safety project was very much a school wide initiative, as noted by Teacher Sue Baty, who stated "I am really proud of the school council, who decided upon the catchy slogan themselves. They have shared their ideas with the rest of the school, and importantly have raised the awareness of road safety, among pupils, and parents. It's made a big difference."
Road Safety Officer Simon Ladbroke stated "The children have worked hard on this road safety project, and have been very keen to inform both motorists and parents, about the dangers illegal parking can cause. During the morning, it was encouraging to see parents taking notice of the banner and patrol, and parking elsewhere."
