Pc appeals to parents over parking at Shropshire primary school

Pc Katie Le'Clere, of Oswestry Rural North Safer Neighbourhoods Team, has urged parents in Weston Rhyn to consider whether they need to take their children by car to school if they live in the village.

It comes after after a number of residents have complained about disruption and congestion in the village as a result of parking outside Weston Rhyn Primary School.

Pc Le'Clere said: "Can I appeal to parents to consider whether it's completely necessary to take and collect their children by car if they live in the village.

"Going by car if you don't need to causes unnecessary congestion and disruption to the roads in the village.

"If you do need to travel by car, please try and keep your time at the school to a minimum.

"I have complaints that people are arriving very early and sitting in the car for nearly an hour just so they can get a good space, and also staying chatting for some time afterwards.

"It's just something to consider if maybe it's not crossed your mind that actually your actions have consequences for others."

Children's safety and the impact on access for emergency service vehicles was also highlighted by the officer.

"The road chaos does nothing for the safety of the children.

"Also, the yellow zig zag lines are there for the safety of the children, to create a safe zone of vision for them to cross and also creates somewhere for our emergency vehicles to park if there is an emergency at the school," she said.

She warned if there was a collision in the area, the driver of the vehicle would be accountable if it was felt that their vehicle had contributed in some way.

Pc Le'Clere added: "I know we all have busy lives but if time allows, it's good for your children to get some fresh air and exercise before and after school."

The complaint comes after members of Weston Rhyn Parish Council have made repeated calls for flashing lights by the school.

Earlier this year Shropshire Council confirmed the lights had been ordered and were awaiting receipt and installation.