BLACKPOOL Borough Council has warned that hundreds of schoolchildren could be at risk unless recruits are found to man school crossings.

Community leaders fear pupils will be forced into crossing busy roads on their way to school by themselves if lollipop patrol numbers continue to drop.

Highways officer Roy Fisher said the loss of patrols had alarm bells ringing at the council and urged people to come forward and help out.

He said: "The Council is leading the way with road safety initiatives, but recruits are needed for this important role to protect schoolchildren.

"The situation is getting desperate as our list of back-up patrollers, who provide essential cover in emergencies, is low on names and vacancies must be filled.

"Lollipop patrols are local heroes who help children on a daily basis."

Councillor Fisher said children at Kincraig Primary and Devonshire Infant schools were the latest victims of a shortage of patrols in the town which had denied them of safe, manned crossing points. He added: "The council is calling on people aged from 18-70 who are reasonably fit, have good eyesight and hearing and are willing to give an hour in their day for the benefit of the local community."

Anyone interested in applying should call Blackpool council officer Bill Sheldon on 01253 390695.

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