A proposal to axe lollipop people from outside schools across Essex has been ditched following strong public opposition.

Essex County Council hoped to make a £320,000 annual saving by axing crossing patrols.

The move will now not go ahead at all but seven schools following a public consultation, with some objections received from school pupils.

Explaining the decision, Rodney Bass, cabinet member for highways, said: “The financial position of Essex County Council is better than it was when we started this consultation as we have been single-mindedly engaged in transformation which has made our financial position strong."

Patrols will be removed at seven schools which already have traffic-light controlled pelican, four of which currently do not have a lollipop person in place.