SAFETY concerns have been raised about the parking situation outside Andover schools as residents fear it is an “accident waiting to happen”.

Police officers spoke to more than 30 drivers outside school gates last week in a bid to crack down on illegal parking outside school gates.

Officers seized one car for not having insurance while reprimanding an irate motorist for abusing the police as tempers flared.

In a statement, a spokesman for Test Valley Police said: “We know mornings can be hectic and stressful, but parking restrictions at schools are there to keep our children safe and make life better for local residents.

“We visited four Andover schools and spoke to over 30 drivers giving warnings and advice.

“One fine was issued to a motorist stopping on zig-zag entrance markings, one car was seized for no insurance and a driver was warned about their abusive language towards us. Please park considerately and legally.”

As winter draws in, residents living in Vigo Road have expressed fears the road is being used as a “rat run” past the school which could result in children getting knocked down.

“It’s turned into a battle round here,” resident Chris told the Advertiser.

“It’s a bit of a nightmare,” he said. “You take your life in your hands. It’s mayhem here.”

Borough Councillor Iris Andersen said that the situation was “becoming a mess.”

“It is now becoming very dangerous,” she said, adding: “eventually, a child will get hurt.”

Also in this week’s paper:

- A special eight page supplement of the new Year R classes from our schools

- A 65-year-old Andover man's struggle to get back into work

- Ludgershall care home "requires improvement" after inspection

- Man who burgled Charlton Tesco Express with a sledgehammer jailed

- Andover charity founder honoured with an MBE

- Pub traveller reviews North Hampshire's drinking establishments

- Young graduate opens her first clinic in town

- Andover Town continue their winning run with a second half comeback

- Two pages of YOUR letters

- And much, much more

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