SCHOOLCHILDREN's lives are in peril because they are forced to walk on a busy main road , it has been claimed.

A councillor is concerned for the safety of children made to walk on the A448 to Stone First School, Stone, because of overgrown footpaths.

Among them is a blind couple from Harvington who have been forced to walk their three children on the busy road because of the footpaths' "parlous" state.

However, Wyre Forest Highways Partnership manager Stuart Reynolds insists the footpaths are passable.

But area Worcestershire county councillor Stephen Clee fears a child will be killed soon unless action is taken.

He has called for the footpaths to be cleared and traffic calming introduced on the busy stretch from Mustow Green island to the school to thwart "maniac drivers".

He warned: "This is ridiculous. This is the only school in Wyre Forest on a main road and groups of children are being forced out onto it.

"It is only a matter of time before a child is seriously hurt or killed.

"We've got kids coming from Harvington, Stone and Mustow Green, who are all in danger.

"The county council talks about safer routes to school, yet its highways partnership says it does not have enough money to clear these paths which are putting children's lives in danger.

"What price to put a JCB out for an hour to clear them up and ensure our children's safety?

However, Mr Reynolds stressed the footpaths were passable although he admitted there was some obstruction.

He said: "It is no worse or better than other footpaths in rural areas. It is something we will take a look at in next year's budget.

"There is no reason for anyone to walk in the road.

"They do so at their own risk. As for Mr Clee's idea of using a JCB - it would completely churn up the paths!"