A NEW campaign is under way in Southend targeting drivers who ignore lollipop men and women helping children cross the road safely.

Southend Council’s road safety team has launched the Stop Means Stop campaign to tackle motorists who put lives at risk by driving through school crossing patrol sites.

The lollipop men and women have the power under the current Road Traffic Act to stop traffic. Any driver or rider who fails to do so, is breaking the law.

Campaign posters are on display at bus stops, sports centres, libraries and other public buildings.

Tony Cox, Tory councillor for public protection and transport, said: “Failure to obey a school crossing patrol stop sign could result in a maximum fine of £1,000 plus a minimum three penalty points on your driving licence – or even worse, the death of a pedestrian.

“If your journey should take you through a patrolled area, please allow an extra bit of time, slow down and be prepared and willing to stop when requested to by the patrol officer.”