Safety chiefs have been accused of putting children's lives at risk after axing a school crossing patrol because the road is too dangerous
The safety patrol was withdrawn on Friday after a lollipop lady was almost knocked down in Colchester.
It is the latest in a string of near misses at the zebra crossing in London Road, Stanway.
But parents are furious with the decision to cut patrols, describing it as "madness".
"If it's not safe for a crossing patrol then our children don't stand a chance," said Ann Rand, whose daughters Catherine, aged eight, and Louise, seven, attend Stanway primary.
"Hundreds of children cross there. Now there will be no-one to help them."
The county council says the lollipop lady had two near misses in 48 hours.
She was left terrified after a car refused to stop on Thursday.
On Friday morning a motorist subjected her to a barrage of abuse as she tried to help youngsters across the road.
"She was so frightened she felt she couldn't carry on," said a spokesman.
Colchester Council is being asked to improve safety at the crossing.
The Essex County Council spokeswoman said: "If it's reasonable we will fund it." However, she was unable to confirm how long the crossing would be unmanned.
Published Tuesday, June 24, 2003
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