Lollipop patrols are under threat at four primary schools in a bid to save money.

Essex County Council is considering axeing patrols at Heybridge, Great Totham, Latchingdon and Tiptree primary schools because there is already a zebra crossing or traffic lights nearby.

County Hall has written to 55 schools affected and asked them to pay £5,860 a year to fund patrols themselves or face losing them.

Highways cabinet member Rodney Bass said: “We don’t think it is reasonable the highways authority is exclusively responsible for funding the patrols.

“I don’t mind if parents pay. Parent-teacher associations do a lot for school so why don’t they extend their remit?"