A HEADTEACHER has responded after a child was left bruised and concussed after being hit by a cyclist on her way to school in Yate.

Bethan Scriven, headteacher at St Mary's CE primary school in Yate has called for people travelling near the school during school times to do so considerately and safely, after an 11-year-old girl was hit when a cyclist failed to stop when instructed by the school's lollipop lady.

The 11-year-old girl received treatment for bruises and concussion at a minor injuries unit after a cyclist hit her as she crossed Church Road on Tuesday morning.

The lollipop lady was stood in the road as the parents and children were crossing the road.

Mrs Scriven said: “We were obviously very upset to hear about this incident and wish our pupil a quick and full recovery. 

"While she was hurt and shaken up, fortunately, her injuries were minor and we look forward to welcoming her back to school very soon.

“The incident has been reported to police who are investigating and until that is complete we cannot say what steps we might need to take to further improve safety for everyone arriving and leaving the school. In the meantime though, I want to thank all our families who arrive at school on foot, who cycle or scooter in, because this helps keep our environment cleaner and is good exercise for everyone.

"Also, thank you to the overwhelming majority of those who do have to drive to school for doing so safely and considerately and who park at a distance from the school gates to reduce traffic directly in front of the school. 

"We are in discussions with the church, preschool and council to discuss whether there are options to improve local parking options, but in the meantime may I ask that you show you care by parking elsewhere.”