Parents in Ferndown, Dorset, have expressed outrage after Dorset Council decided to remove a beloved lollipop lady, Sarah Middleton, from her post outside a local school, citing safety concerns. The council claims that having a crossing patrol officer at a zebra crossing creates confusion for drivers.
Community Hero Under Threat
Sarah Middleton, 53, has been supervising children across Church Road for 18 months and has been recognised as an 'unsung community hero'. Despite her dedication, Dorset Council has installed two zebra crossings and terminated her role, arguing that the combination of a lollipop lady and a zebra crossing is confusing to motorists.
The 30mph road sees an average of 8,000 cars daily, and parents believe removing Middleton will increase the risk of accidents. Middleton herself noted that some cars fail to stop even for her, and the situation will likely worsen after her departure.
Petition and Public Backlash
A petition launched to save her position has amassed over 600 signatures in just one week. This decision mirrors a similar controversy in Lytchett Matravers, where the council reversed its plan to remove a lollipop lady after public outcry, allowing her to operate away from the zebra crossing.
Middleton will remain in place until the end of the school year to allow families to adjust. Parent Lou Elliott-Smith voiced frustration: 'I don't see how having someone visually there to help children cross can confuse drivers. Surely they are more likely to see her and stop.'
Another parent, Cally Sebis, added: 'My children and I use these crossings daily. The amount of cars that still don't stop when they see people crossing the unmanned crossing is unbelievable.'
Council's Justification
Jon Andrews, Dorset Council's highways portfolio holder, stated: 'This is not a funding decision. School crossing patrols are valued, but communities can choose to fund them at other locations, not at zebra crossings.' A council spokesperson elaborated: 'Having a zebra crossing and school crossing patrol in the same location can create confusion about who drivers should respond to. Department for Transport guidance states that clear priorities for drivers are critical.'
Local councillor Cathy Lugg expressed disappointment and has questioned the decision. Middleton, who is also a foster carer, vowed to fight: 'I'm not going to go quietly. I want to raise awareness of how dangerous it's going to be.'
