A GROUP of Southampton parents have won their battle to make roads safer for school children.

Hundreds of parents backed a campaign demanding a lollipop person outside Wordsworth Primary School in Victor Street, Shirley.

Now city roads chiefs have agreed to employ someone to help youngsters cross the zebra crossing.

More than 240 parents backed the campaign led by mum-of-two Catherine Knight.

She said: "I feel like I have been listened to.

"This all began in 2017 when my daughter was nearly knocked over by an impatient driver.

"Although there is a zebra crossing I have seen so many near misses, so I decided that something needed to be done."

Cllr Satvir Kaur, who represents the Shirley ward, said: "It has been a real concern for parents and the school and I'm am pleased we have been able to work with the community to make this happen.

"I visited the area for a morning and it definitely is a busy part of the road and something had to be done."

Rick Page, the headteacher at Wordsworth Primary school confirmed that they hope the new lollipop lady should start work by the end of January.

He said: "Wordsworth Primary has been growing rapidly over the last five years and is now full with 21 classes and 630 children on roll.

"This has put increasing pressure on the school infrastructure and the crossing in Victor Street. "

Council transport boss Cllr Jacqui Rayment, said:“This will provide a greater awareness of road safety and encourage more children and families to enjoy the benefits of walking, cycling or scooting on the school run.

"We know that local families will welcome the change and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it has on their journeys to school.”