A road safety group and Pembrokeshire County Council are reminding drivers of the rules of the road as children go back to school.

Road Safety Wales, alongside the council, is urging motorists to show respect to school crossing patrols and to abide by the rules of the road as the new term begins.

School crossing patrol officers are acknowledged as dedicated and much-appreciated members of the school and wider community.

No matter the weather, they ensure people's safety when crossing the road.

Road Safety Wales emphasises that whilst most motorists follow the law and stop as instructed, it is crucial that all obey to enhance safety around schools.

Cllr Rhys Sinnett, cabinet member for residents' services, said: "The Road Safety Wales campaign is not only highlighting the requirement for drivers to comply with school crossing patrol signs but also the unfortunate fact that many crossing officers face verbal abuse, intimidation and danger from moving vehicles just for doing their job.

"As children return to school we must all be mindful of our excellent school crossing staff and the work they do to keep young people safe."

Motorists must understand that they are legally obligated to heed the signals given by a school crossing patrol.

When they raise their sign, even if they haven't set foot into the roadway, drivers must be prepared to stop.

Teresa Ciano, chairperson of Road Safety Wales, said: "There is no excuse for failing to comply with the school crossing patrol’s instructions.

"Whether you are running late or didn’t realise you MUST stop, you have a responsibility, legally and morally, to avoid putting other road users at risk.

"Every child and their guardian in Wales should be safe when crossing the road to school."

Infringements can induce a penalty of up to £1,000 and three penalty points on the offender's licence.

Anyone witnessing a traffic offence is encouraged to report it to the Police on 101, or in an emergency, call 999.

Video or photographic evidence can also be submitted to GoSafe via Operation SNAP.

More information can be found on the GoSafe website.