Motorists are putting children's lives at risk by failing to stop at a pedestrian crossing – that is the message from a nearby school.

The zebra crossing at Shipdham Road, Toftwood, near Dereham, has been dubbed as an 'accident waiting to happen' by staff and pupils at Fred Nicholson School and Dereham police.

On a number of occasions, motorists have failed to stop at the pedestrian crossing when children have been waiting to cross the road.

Earlier this year, Alfie Brown, 14, was left feeling 'shocked' and 'scared' after a car crashed into the back of another vehicle which had stopped to let him cross.

It is believed about 50% of the vehicles do not stop for children.

A campaign has been launched for improved safety measures at the site and to make more motorists aware of the crossing.

Dee Sagar, who teaches travel training at the school for children with special needs as part of the Titan (Travel Independence Training Across the Nation) programme, said: 'It's been an ongoing problem and it's awful to see how bad it is. There are no pedestrian crossing signs on the approach and there is a need for drivers to be more aware.'

As part of the Titan scheme, children learn how to cross the road independently and walk into town. It is designed to give them life skills and confidence.

Miss Sagar said the crossing puts the future of the course at risk as she cannot guarantee the children's safety. The zebra crossing near the Co-op food store is also said to be problematic.

Measures hoped to improve the safety of the crossing include warning signs on the approach.

PCSO Michala Benton added: 'It's an accident waiting to happen and we need to make drivers aware that there is a crossing there.'

• Are you campaigning for road safety measures in the area where you live? Email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk