A CAMPAIGN to improve road safety around Eldersfield Lawn School has been successfully concluded in time for the new term.

Malvern Hills Highways Partnership has introduced a speed limit of 50mph across the common and introduced 'gateways' at both approaches, with flashing warning signs, which can be operated from the school.

This follows concerns expressed by parents and governors, including the presentation of a petition in May.

On Tuesday, just 24 hours before the children started back after the summer break, there was a switch-on ceremony attended by the head Lynn Gill, Worcestershire county councillor Tom Wells and Eldersfield Parish Council chairman Harold Davies.

Mrs Gill said: "We've always been concerned for the children's safety when they are being dropped off and collected. Cars pass through the common at very high speed, when the children are out there it can be quite frightening."

She said the new arrangements would give motorists good warning that the school was there so they could slow down.

Mr Davies, who is also a school governor, said the community was also looking for some police presence on the stretch.

"Whilst the introduction of a speed limit is welcomed after many years of canvassing, concern remains that unless there is a visible police presence in the near future, sending a clear message of enforcement, then the initial impact will be lost," he said.

"The introduction of enhanced signs with red road markings will no doubt alert motorists to the imminent presence of the school and by activating the flashing lights either side of the school for a limited period capturing morning arrivals and afternoon collections, we are certainly looking for significant speed reductions during these periods."

l Turning on the warning sign are parish council chairman Harold Davies, pupil Lindsey Coleman, head Lynn Gill, Coun Tom Wells and Mike Davis.