THE Messenger is investigating reports that a lollipop man in Trafford was hit by a van that failed to stop this morning.

The incident occurred at the junction of the A56 Washway Road, at its junction with Eastway and Woodhouse Lane, sometime between 8.45am and 8.50am.

At the time of the incident it is thought that the lollipop man was helping the children cross the road to Tyntesfield Primary School.

The site is also one where Trafford Council is considering axing the school patrol in an effort to save more than £24m in 2015/2016.

Parents fearing the dangers to their children's lives have campaigned against the cuts and handed in a petition containing more than 700 signatures.

One of the parents Amy Whyte said: "I didn't witness the incident myself but I understand from parents who did, the lollipop man was hit by a VW van which failed to stop.

He was pretty shaken up by it but after a few minutes continued with his crossing duties. No ambulance was called and at the time he did not seek medical attention."

"Parents have got the registration it will be reported to police."

Mrs Whyte added: "It a complete mystery to parents why this crossing is considered a low risk by the council because if he had a lucky escape so did the children he was guiding across the road."

"We believe if they take away the crossing patrol for the sake of saving a few pounds it will put at risk the lives of many of our children."

A Trafford Council spokesman confirmed that an incident occurred today, January 12, when a van struck a school crossing patrol on the junction of Eastway with Washway Road.

The spokesman said: "Fortunately the attendant was unhurt but understandably shaken. An initial internal investigation into the matter has taken place and it appears that this is an isolated incident rather than a road safety issue, however, the matter has now been referred to the police for further investigation."