A MUM says she is “livid” after councillors suggested parents and schools pay to keep lollipop ladies working in the borough.

A newsletter published by the Conservative councillors for the Kelsey and Eden Park ward says “local schools and parents” may “decide they wish to contribute financially to the retention of their lollipop service”.

This follows Bromley Council deciding to cut funding for lollipop ladies from April next year, to save £233,000.

Jo Barden, who lives in Eden Way, Eden Park, and has two daughters at Balgowan Primary School in Beckenham, says the councillors have a “bloody cheek” to ask parents and schools to pay.

The 47-year-old journalist said: “It’s a bloody cheek for them to ask parents and schools to pay for something which is fundamental to children’s safety.

“I would argue that crossing patrols are an essential frontline service that should be paid for by council tax.”

“I only hope a child does not die as a result of this reckless cost cutting.”

She added: "Even though this decision doesn't affect my children's school directly, we drive past the Marian Vian Primary School's lollipop lady every day and see what an important job she does helping parents and children cross the road in heavy rush hour traffic.

"I'm concerned that a child might be hit by a car if she's no longer there."

After receiving the newsletter, mum-of-three Mrs Barden emailed one of the three councillors for the ward, Councillor Peter Dean.

She wrote: “I can assure you parents do not wish to contribute as many are already hard pressed due to the recession and most assume their council tax will cover this essential service.”

Cllr Dean replied, writing: “The portfolio holder has deferred termination of the service for 12 months in the hope funds can be found or an alternative way of providing the service can be identified.

“Myself and my ward colleagues share your concerns and we will be working very hard to try and get this service retained in one form or another.”

The council has received numerous petitions and letters from residents campaigning against the decision to cut funding for crossing patrols.