A CAMPAIGN has been launched to stop parents parking dangerously outside schools.

Police will be targeting motorists who park illegally on zigzag lines at Blackburn schools and issuing them with penalty tickets as part of the operation.

Throughout the month officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Teams will be out in force at schools in the south-east area of town.

They will be encouraging parents and other motorists to park safely and lawfully.

Officers will also be issuing warnings and taking action against anyone found to be parking dangerously.

It comes after locals raised concerns about motorists who persistently park irresponsibly when dropping children off or picking them up from school.

Sergeant Mark Cruise said: “Parents who park on zigzag lines outside schools are putting children’s lives at risk and we will be taking action against those who continue to break the law.

“Road safety remains a priority for the police and we will continue to do all we can to reduce road casualties.

"However, everybody has a part to play in reducing accidents and that includes local motorists and parents themselves.”

Police sent out a stark warning to motorists that they could face a heavy fine and three points on their licence if they are found parking on zigzag lines.

Sgt Cruise said: “We are asking parents to help us to make sure the roads outside schools are as safe as possible by telling us about drivers who disregard the safety of children.”

Schools being targeted as part of the drive include St Thomas School in Newton Street.