CALLS for improved safety measures and better play facilities have gone out in the wake of the tragic death of a young boy killed running across the motorway.

Little Garry Cunliffe, aged seven, was struck by a car on the M61 close to Bamber Bridge just before 3pm on Sunday (Sept 21).

Garry, of Seven Acres, Clayton Brook, was with friends one of whom is believed to have carried him to safety as traffic came to a halt.

They had been playing on the opposite side of the motorway, apparently on a makeshift swing fastened to railings near the road.

County Councillor Margaret Livesey, a governor of Clayton Brook CP School which Garry attended, said she asked the Highways Agency to make nearby fencing and steps more secure.

She said: "When the M61 was built it went through a country area, Brindle. There were just fields there and no children playing about. That boundary fence was sufficient, but it's no longer a country area."

Police have launched an investigation. Inspector Chris Weigh of Chorley Police said: "It is unlikely they were playing chicken. We would like to hear from witnesses on (01257) 269021." The youngster's heartbroken mother Janet Cunliffe, aged 31, dismissed reports he had been playing dare.

Garry, who suffered head and internal injuries, was airlifted to Royal Preston Hospital after the accident but died minutes after arriving.

In Preston councillors have vowed to highlight dangerous roads after a four-year-old boy was left fighting for his life after being hit the same day as Garry.

Little George Atkinson was knocked down when he stepped into St George's Road, Deepdale, while playing just before 2pm near his St Philip's Road home.

Preston council's Road Safety Sub-Committee Chair Councillor Terry Cartwright said: "It's dreadful. I've every sympathy for the family. Anything we can do as a council to protect people crossing the road must be done.

"This serious accident is one too many and I will be bringing this up at the next meeting."

Deepdale ward Councillor Derek Barton said: "This is a tragic accident. Young children don't know the dangers. It's a problem.

"We've got to seriously start looking at improving traffic calming measures and reducing speed limits. I'll be having a word with the chair of the highways committee."

George was critical but stable in Royal Preston Hospital.

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