A MUM says children are being put at risk as a crossing patrol is no longer being provided on a busy road.

Donna Huckstepp said she was shocked after learning this week that children were having to cross the road without help.

And she believes that four Dorset Police officers, who stood on the road to carry out a traffic speed check in Verwood last Wednesday and Thursday, should have spotted the problem and volunteered help.

She said: "The crossing patrol has apparently resigned. It's a terrible road. What is it going to take before a child gets knocked over, before somebody does something about this?

"Lots of parents are disgusted that nothing has been done about it.

"I sent my child to school on her bike thinking there was a lollipop lady to cross her over."

Mrs Huckstepp, whose children are aged 10 and 12, suggested the crossing patrol on quieter Howe Lane be moved temporarily to Manor Road until someone else could be appointed.

Emmanuel Middle School headteacher Grahame Webb said the situation had occurred through nobody's fault and they were keen to attract a new patroller.

"I have sent a letter to all parents. Is there anybody out there that can do this job?"

Alan Proctor, road safety officer at Dorset County Council, said they were advertising to fill the vacancy left after the patroller retired in December.

"If we could put a lollipop person there we would.

"We do advertise. We sent out flyers through the schools, we put advertisements on large posters, I have sent out six posters to our town council to put up on their notice boards.

"If people don't come forward there's not a lot we can do."

Mr Proctor said they could not move the patrol from neighbouring Howe Lane, as the patroller had been given that specific road in her contract.

He has advised nearby schools that the Manor Road patrol is currently vacant, and schools have told parents by newsletter.

If anyone wants to apply to be the new patroller they should contact the road safety department at Dorset County Council on 01305 224558.

A Dorset Police spokesman said the officers had been in training, and therefore were not able to help out.