Bridge PS pupil (8) injured in crash

A BRIDGE PS pupil was seriously injured when he was hit by a car while walking home from school last week.

The eight-year-old boy was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast with head and leg injuries last Tuesday March 1.

The accident happened at the junction of the Edenderry and Ballygowan Road just yards from the school where children were heading home for the day.

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Despite concerns that the school crossing patrol in that area had been removed altogether, the SELB confirmed the patrol is in place but the employee is currently off on long-term sickness.

Bridge PS principal Theresa Devlin said it is vital the patrol continues.

“In light of this situation if the SELB would replace the patrol it would be invaluable,” said Mrs Devlin. “If it saved one life it would be worth it.”

An SELB spokeswoman confirmed the board is looking for a temporary replacement for the crossing patrol, but said the full responsibility for a child’s safety remains with their parents.

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“Education and Library Boards may at their discretion provide School Crossing Patrols at suitable locations to facilitate those pupils that walk to and from school,” said the spokeswoman.

Parents however, remain responsible for the safety of their children that are required to walk to and from school, and it is assumed that pupils will be accompanied as necessary by a responsible adult on their journey to and from school.”

Witnesses of the accident or anyone with information is asked to contact Banbridge police on 0845 600 8000 or anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.