PARENTS in Charfield have spoken of their relief after a pelican crossing was unveiled outside their school.

They say the new measure will make it safer for children to cross the busy B4058, which runs past the primary school.

It follows a long campaign by members of Charfield School WALK Team, who worked alongside local councillors to have the crossing installed.

Mother-of-two Debbie Riddle, who chairs the group, told the Gazette: "I first noticed how difficult it was for children and parents to cross the road when my son, Alexander, started pre-school a few years ago.

"I spoke to the parish council about it and they recommended I talked to the School Walk team. We worked together to make this happen, but had to overcome a few issues along the way."

The school had been forced to rely on its caretaker as a temporary lollipop man before the crossing was built.

The group managed to convince South Gloucestershire Council to fund it after compiling a large petition and detailed traffic report, which was handed to councillors.

Mrs Riddle added: "I'd like to thank everyone who helped make it happen - especially Cllr Pat Hockey at South Gloucestershire Council who played a big role in it. If it wasn't for her involvement it may never have happened."

Other parents at the school gave the crossing the thumbs up.

Kate Isaacs, who has two children at Charfield Primary School said: "It will make a huge difference for the school, even though we had a lollipop man.

"It means that children and parents will always be able to cross what is a very busy road safely."