A JOINT scheme in Gwynedd, has been recognised in a national road safety awards event.

Following concerns by members of Ysgol y Garnedd in Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, regarding the attitudes of some motorists towards the school crossing patrol, an innovative idea was devised.

Gwynedd Council’s Road Safety team decided to trial a new scheme and gave the school's crossing patrol officer, Arwel Owen, a body camera to wear during his working hours.

Such was the success of the scheme, that it has gone on to win the Alun Griffiths safety prize at the Charted Institution of Highways and Transportation Wales awards.

Officials at Ysgol Y Garnedd say that there has been no need to refer any incidents to the police since the scheme has been introduced and that attitudes have improved.

“The situation before the scheme had been worrying us for some time when trying to ensure the safety of pupils, staff and parents when they cross the road during the start and end of a school day." explained Llion Williams, headteacher of the school.

Ysgol y Garnedd crossing patrol officer, Arwel Owen added: “The majority of drivers do slow down and stop when I step into the road to help the children cross, but a few think it’s okay to ignore me and carry on regardless.

"All I’m trying to do is make sure the children cross the road safely, therefore I hope that this scheme will result in everybody stopping.

"It’s the children’s safety that matters at the end of the day.”