PARENTS of Children at Stoke Ash Primary School expressed sympathy with crossing patrol Sheila Banham's decision to quit because of the dangers of the A140.

PARENTS of Children at Stoke Ash Primary School expressed sympathy with crossing patrol Sheila Banham's decision to quit because of the dangers of the A140.

They also called for a reduction in the speed limit where the road passes through the village and more warning signs.

There was also concern about the dangers faced by children in the village waiting beside the A140 to catch the bus to Hartismere High School at Eye each morning.

Debbie Woodhouse, who has three children at the Stoke Ash school and transports them each day from her home at Gislingham, said she could appreciate Mrs Banham's fears.

"I've had one or two near misses myself – the road is so frightening. It is horrendous to drive along it, let alone try to cross it. I've seen three accidents during the time I've brought my children to school here," she said.

Mrs Woodhouse said warning lights had to be more prominent and a reduction in the speed limit was needed.

Dawn Lloyd from Wickham Skeith, who brings her daughter to the school each day, said it was "real shame" that Mrs Banham had resigned but she understood why the road terrified her.

"You only ever hear about the actual accidents but there have been so many near misses along this road. It is lethal.

"A lot of people don't seem to care because it is only a tiny school. But it is our children's lives at risk," she said

Mary Child who lives in Stoke Ash village and has one child at the primary school, said: "I can't say I blame Mrs Banham for packing it in. The way the traffic goes along the A140 it is a very dangerous job. I wouldn't want to do it."

Linda Smith, who met her son, Calum, when he came out of school and was the only parent to cross the A140 on foot yesterday, said she had been standing near Mrs Banham when last week's accident occurred.

"She was really shaken up and I can understand how she feels," she said.