Parents from Bilton said speeding traffic was a major problem outside the school – particularly on Bilton Lane and Crab Lane – and they often fear for their children's safety.

Helen Williams, from Bilton, said: "I think the campaign is a very good idea, particularly when the children are a bit older and walking home from school and crossing roads on their own.

"Cars do speed down here and Crab Lane.

"I would like to think if a 20mph zone is put in place drivers would have to pay attention."

A good idea

Gill Parker, from Hall Lane, said lowering speed limits outside schools was a good idea.

"I have noticed the traffic speeding past – and Crab Lane is terrible," she said.

"I worry about my children's safety. They are getting to the age where they want to start walking on their own."

Sharon Hanslow, of Albert Road, added: "It's pretty horrendous. The cars do speed up because of the traffic lights. They come round the corner and speed up to try and beat the lights.

"It's better now we've got a lollipop lady but even so when the children are walking to school it's dangerous. We don't like them to step out of our sight with the fear that cars speed up Bilton and Crab Lane."

For the full story and a round up of the Safe to School campaign latest, including interviews with children and teachers, as well as residents' letters, see this week's Harrogate Advertiser.