PARENTS of children who go to the same school are arguing with each other over illegal parking while on the school run, it has been claimed.

Each weekday morning and afternoon cars are parked on the paths and in the middle of the road in Eastern Avenue, Old Walcot, as parents try to drop off and collect children at Lainesmead Primary School and Nursery.

Angry residents say this has been a problem for many years and believe it is a major safety issue.

Kim Hannah, whose son is a pupil there, said: “It’s absolutely disgusting finding car owners drive up on the paths just to try and get through traffic.

“I have had to pull my son away from the path to the grass field because they have nearly hit him.

“They purposely stop in the middle of the road with their hazards on waiting for their children to get in or out the car. We are all there for a reason, they aren’t different than anyone else so why should they be allowed to get away with these sorts of things and put pedestrians and the car driver’s life in danger.”

Ms Hannah added: “I dread every morning and afternoon picking my son up from school.”

Parents say they have reported the issue to Swindon council several times but that nothing has been done. They want to see cameras in the area to tackle the issue.

A resident who lives in Eastern Avenue, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “It’s outrageous how qualified drivers assume they can do what they want in the road.

“I have even been blocked from getting out of my drive, it’s ridiculous.”

Head teacher Eirian Painter said: “As a school we are fully aware of the issues and have been supporting parents in their concerns.

“Myself and other members of the senior leadership team, as well as our parent support advisor, regularly patrol around the school perimeter and speak to parents on an individual basis regarding their dangerous parking.

“We remind parents through our weekly newsletter of the need to park in a considerate way as well as sending out individual letters to parents reminding them of the aspects of the Highway Code which are not being adhered to.

“As has been stated by other headteachers recently, it is an increasing issue for many schools.

“We have been in contact with Swindon Borough Council as well as our local PCSO for support with this issue.”