STOP means stop!That was the message today as drivers were warned to take extra care when travelling through Suffolk school crossings.A new campaign, launched by Suffolk County Council today has been designed to remind drivers they are legally bound to stop when requested to do so by a patrol officer.

STOP means stop!

That was the message today as drivers were warned to take extra care when travelling through Suffolk school crossings.

A new campaign, launched by Suffolk County Council today has been designed to remind drivers they are legally bound to stop when requested to do so by a patrol officer.

The 'Stop means Stop' campaign aims to increase children's safety while using school crossing by warning drivers they face tough penalties if they ignore the law.

Drivers who fail to stop at the crossings can be fined up to £1,000, incur penalty points or even lose their licence.

Peter Monk, Suffolk County Council's portfolio holder for Public Protection, said: "School crossing patrol officers provide a valuable service to the local community.

"They are out in all weathers to keep our children safe on their journey to and from school.

"Drivers who flout this law are putting lives at risk.

"If you know your car journey is going to take you through a patrolled area allow yourself extra time, slow down and always be prepared to stop."

Drivers are being encouraged to show their support for the campaign by displaying a Stop Means Stop car sticker.

Stickers are available from local school crossing patrols, schools, libraries, doctor and dentist surgeries or by calling 01473 265006.

Do you think the campaign is a good idea? Write in to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk