LOLLIPOP men and women at the busy school crossing on the A82, Argyll Avenue, were supported by cops last week.

The move followed reports that careless and speeding drivers had been “striking their lollipop sticks” as they drive past.

The operation was carried out by Dumbarton community police last Wednesday in response to parents’ concerns over the speed at which drivers approach the crossing used by children heading to Dumbarton Academy or Aitkenbar and St Peter’s primary schools.

There are warning signs to drivers approaching the crossing however they are not the style which incorporate flashing lights

Sergeant Brian Simpson explained that police are trying to prevent the potential for something to go wrong

Sgt Simpson told the Reporter: “This is a very busy stretch of road at the school crossing times.

“The concerns are when traffic on the lane nearest the kerb slows down to allow the crossing attendant to enter the roadway, the build up causes a restricted view on the offside lane.

“We have had reports from the school crossing attendants, of vehicles striking their lollipop sticks as they enter the offside lane as the drivers are not paying attention or not driving slow enough.

“The crossing attendants at this point are very experienced and know the dangers, however when you have a group of young children waiting to cross there is always the potential for something to go wrong and that is what we are trying to prevent.”

The Police Scotland day of action last week, overseen by PC Hanley, resulted in more than 40 vehicles being stopped, with four road traffic offences identified and reported.

Cops attend the specific Argyll Avenue point on a regular basis to try and influence driver behaviour.

And Sgt Simpson says the crossing attendants have been asked to try and take note of registration numbers for vehicles displaying dangerous driving for the police to follow up.

Linda Speir, chair of Silverton and Overtoun Community Council, said reports of attendants’ sticks getting knocked by vehicles were “shocking to hear”.

Ms Speir said: “Everyone considers the children but they don’t consider the lollipop staff.”

A spokeswoman for West Dunbartonshire Council said: “We are committed to working in partnership with Police Scotland and appreciate their support in ensuring the safety of all of our residents on our roads."