Anxious parents have gathered a thousand signatures against plans by the County Council to axe lollipop patrollers. The parents, children and husband and wife lollypop duo Mr and Mrs Betson have told local MP Daniel Zeichner that this is a cut too far.

The council’s highways and community infrastructure committee has recommended axing school crossing patrols despite widespread fears for the safety of children walking to school.

Mr Zeichner said: “Cambridgeshire County Council is making colossal and cruel Conservative cuts. Surely in a world class city we shouldn’t have to compromise with the saftey of our children? We want to encourage children to walk to school not put barriers in the way. These are wrong footed and short sighted cuts. I urge the council to think again. Withdraw the threat of P45s for every lollypop man and lady and show some Christmas spirit and common sense.”