PARENTS who risk youngsters' lives by parking outside school gates could face a hefty fine as Blackburn police launch a crackdown.

The police have put together an action plan designed to cut down on illegal and irresponsible parking outside schools.

The campaign will be concentrated on 19 problem schools in Hyndburn, Blackburn and Darwen.

Police were launching the project today following a series of problems and complaints.

Lancashire County Council has also been looking at ways of easing congestion outside the county's schools.

Anyone who is found parking illegally faces a spot fine of £20 for their first offence.

People who carry too many children in their car will also be spoken to by police officers. Police are also concerned about the number of children travelling to school in cars without seat belts.

And parents who fail to control their children or let them run out into the road will also be spoken to by the police.

Traffic officer Sgt Nigel Walker is helping to organised the campaign. He said: "Parents should think twice before parking near school premises.

"If they gave some consideration to the difficulties caused I am sure it would go a long way to dealing with the problem.

"A small number of parents are causing a great deal of disruption and it is those we will be targeting in this campaign."

He added: "Headteachers at all the schools concerned have been most supportive of the new initiative.

"They recognise that congestion at school gates is a problem and one that needs our attention if any serious accidents are to be averted."

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