THERE have been cuts in funding for school crossing patrols across Cornwall, including sites in Delabole, Camelford and Callington.

School crossing patrol sites are reviewed periodically, to ensure that they meet the national guidance set out by the Road Safety GB and the school crossing patrol policy adopted by Cornwall Council last year.

Following a recent review, 19 sites in Cornwall no longer meet the criteria for the continual provision of a school crossing patrol, which is based on the number of vehicles passing and children crossing during the busiest times in the morning and afternoon.

Cornwall Council will now cease funding for the school crossing patrols for these sites at the end of the 2016 summer term.

Delabole lollipop lady, Pam Wren, who will potentially lose her job at the end of the term, said: “I love crossing the children and being a part of the school, and will be sad to go if nothing can be sorted.

“I really appreciate all of the support from the parents, children and village community, but I do feel that a lollipop person is needed on that stretch of road, especially during the summer as it’s mayhem outside the school.

“It’s just the way of the times now, and I understand cuts have to be made somewhere — but children’s safety should be a priority.”

Cornwall Council said: “We recognise that school crossing patrols are greatly valued by both parents and schools, and so are offering to continue to provide training, uniforms and equipment if the individual schools are prepared to meet the costs of employing the patrols.

“We have written to all the affected schools, and are happy to work with any school which is interested in taking up our offer.”