A HEAD teacher today paid tribute to "well-liked" pupil Simon Laughland, who was killed on Friday crossing a 70mph by-pass.

Nigel Jepson, head of Haslingden High School, called all the school's 1,400 pupils into the hall for a special assembly to tell them of the tragic news and pay tribute to 12-year-old Simon.

He said: "We were thinking of holding a year eight assembly but decided to speak to all of the children at once because is is very important for us as a school community to support each other.

"He had a lot to look forward to. He was well liked and active boy who loved his sport and was very enthusiastic about his martial arts.

"I have assured the pupils we will be passing on their deepest sympathy to the family when we see them this afternoon and we will be represented at the funeral.

"The whole school is in a state of shock. We didn't want the students to learn of what happened through whispers and we will be watching the children's reactions over the day and the week to make sure they have the support they need." Simon, his brother Andrew, 14, and a friend were going to a house in Rawtenstall and were crossing the A682 Rawtenstall/Edenfield by-pass between the turning to Haslingden and Queens' Square roundabout.

Simon was hit by a car as he ran across.

That part of the road is unlit although Lancashire County Council put lights on the Edenfield by-pass section more than five years ago.

There are rights of way crossing the busy dual-carriageway which are regularly used.

Simon's parents Bob and Lynne have appealed for children not to use the short-cuts.

More than three years ago Wayne Haworth, 33, was hit by a car as he was crossing the same stretch of road, and died of extensive injures in Bury General Hospital.

Councillor Alan Fishwick, chairman of Rossendale Council's engineering and planning committee, said: "It is likely we will be asking Lancashire County Council to look at the safety aspects for pedestrians and motorists on that stretch of road.

"Perhaps we can have lights on that part of the road or better signs so drivers are more aware that there could be someone crossing the road.

"Accidents are going to continue happening unless something is done to help the situation."

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