MOTORISTS are being urged to cut their speed around schools amid fears for the safety of pupils.

The warning comes after a Scarborough driver received a heavy fine and three penalty points on his licence for ignoring a school crossing and narrowly missing a woman helping youngsters across the road.

North Yorkshire County Council has set up more than 70 patrols to try to prevent incidents under the Stop For Lollipop campaign and has promised to crack down on motorists who flout the rules.

Coun Gareth Dadd, executive member for road safety, said: “Patrols have to be confident they can get children across the road safely.”

“We understand people are busy and often in a hurry, but it is more important to concentrate on their driving and make sure they are looking out for school crossing patrols as they protect our children.”

Inspector Dave Brown, head of roads policing for North Yorkshire Police, said: “This is a warning to drivers to slow down and take more care. They can be fined up to £1,000, with three penalty points or disqualification, for failing to stop for a patrol.

“We take the safety of children and families very seriously and will prosecute any motorist who puts lives at risk.”