THE grieving family of a 16-year-old girl who died after a road accident are campaigning for a crossing to ensure such a tragedy never happens again.

Sarah Temple died in June, two days after being hit by two cars on the A167, near the Gretna Green pub, at Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.

The popular schoolgirl had visited the pub briefly to pick up an application form for a job there and was returning home.

Her father, Stephen, said: "There were three girls crossing the road and Sarah was the third in line, she wasn't even nearest to the cars.

"The drivers weren't speeding. We don't hold them responsible and we hope they don't hold Sarah responsible.

"But the road is an accident waiting to happen. It's a family pub, but there is no means for people to walk there without crossing what is a busy road."

The community has rallied round the family, including Sarah's friends from Woodham Community Technology College.

A memorial bench has been placed in West Cemetery and the school has plans for a memorial garden.

Mr Temple said: "Sarah's friends have been great. From the day of the accident, they were at the hospital at her bedside, talking to her."

A friend of Sarah's started up a petition in her name to gain a crossing for the road at the point where she was hit and the response has surprised everybody.

Sarah's parents decided to get a few more signatures and placed petition forms in shops and pubs throughout Newton Aycliffe and surrounding villages.

An estimated 3,000 people have added their names in just over a week.

Mr and Mrs Temple handed over the first batch to county councillors Terry Hogan and Bill Blenkinsopp yesterday. They are backing the campaign and are seeking a meeting with Tony Blair to discuss the issue.

Mr Temple, who would like to see a light-controlled crossing installed, said: "We just want Sarah to be the last life to be taken on that road. She wasn't a bad kid - she was happy-go-lucky and would do anything for anyone.

"We need the support of people, not just in Newton Aycliffe, but also Chilton, Ferryhill and anyone who uses that road. We need their support to make that road safer."