A ROAD safety scheme currently taking place in Netherton is encouraging parents to park further away from school gates.

The Cars and Kids Don't Mix campaign is designed to make people think about the way they park when dropping off and collecting their children from school.

Campaigners are also keen to highlight the benefits of using alternative methods of transport such as walking and cycling to school.

The campaign is designed to try and help reduce road congestion, minimise localised pollution, encourage active travel while helping to make road crossings safer.

Cllr Khursid Ahmed, Dudley cabinet member for transport, said: "We want schools to get in touch if they think they have a problem.

"When children cross the road, anything can happen and we want parents to be extra cautious when they park.

"People shouldn't block drives but should be more mindful when they park, even for short periods at a time.

"Zig-zag lines are outside schools for a very good reason - to keep pupils safe by creating a sight line that enables them to see and be seen before they cross the road.

"We've already had one bad incident in Milking Bank and we don't want another.

"If any school thinks they have a problem they should get in touch with the road safety team on 01384 815432.”