FEARS for the future of a primary school's crossing patrol have brought road safety protests from parents and governors.

Councillors have also called on Durham County Council to think carefully before withdrawing what they say is a service which is crucial to the continued safety of children attending Eldon Lane Primary School.

A recent review of the service, which assists the children to negotiate the busy main road at Busty Bank, suggested that the crossing patrol should be allowed to lapse because it does not meet county council criteria.

School governor and local councillor Chris Foote Wood has already written to the county council voicing his objections.

He said: "The so-called review took place when our crossing warden was off sick.

"During this time more parents than usual took their children to school by car or led them to school, crossing at another point. No wonder it did not meet the criteria. Nowadays, we are all concerned about children's health and safety.

"To put children's lives at risk for the sake of a few pounds a week is a disgrace."

County councillor Phil Graham has also strongly objected to the possible loss of service.

He said: "I would urge the council to take due consideration of all comments from the school, its governors, parents, and myself, who are unanimous in our view that the crossing should be retained.

"The road is heavily trafficked and the children are likely to face considerable danger if left to cross the road unaccompanied.''

Both councillors have also pointed out that if the crossing patrol is discontinued, more parents will bring their children to school by car and contradict the council's healthier lifestyles policy, which encourages walking to school.

A county council spokesman said the position had to be automatically reviewed before a replacement was sought.

No decision had been made about whether to replace the crossing warden.

He said: "We have had a lot of letters from parents and we are still out to consultation.

"A final decision will be made by the highway's committee on November 29. Until then we welcome people's comments.