GOVERNERS at the primary school attended by Leonie Shaw have written to their county council in an attempt to make safety improvements on the road where she was killed.

Alex Clements, chairman of governors at St Andrew's Primary School, Henknowle, County Durham, said yesterday he had asked to meet with highway officials to discuss safety issues.

He said: "We are looking at safety issues for the play area near where the tragedy happened. Perhaps a new fence to replace the old wooden one, or some sort of feasable barrier.''

Mr Clements said he was concerned that youngsters were putting their lives at risk by crossing the road in the same place where Leonie, six, was killed two weeks ago, after being struck by a car.

He said: "It is not just children as young as Leonie, but people who should know better are doing it and it's dangerous. It is a very busy road.''

Mr Clements said he did not know what to suggest to try to encourage people to use a nearby bridge that goes over the bypass, but he hoped a meeting with Durham County Council and Wear Valley District Council would help produce ideas.

A spokesman for Durham County Council said it would be happy to meet with the governors, but he urged adults to lead by example and use the bridge.

Meanwhile, Bishop Auckland police have cleared away the floral tributes and toys left by well-wishers in the community.

After discussions with Leonie's mother, Michelle Aldworth, it was agreed that any flowers that were still fresh would be laid on the little girl's grave. The toys have been donated to the children's ward at Bishop Auckland Hospital.

Detective Constable Gwynn Hill said: "They had to be moved at some time and it was getting difficult for the school kids, having a constant reminder of what had occurred.

"We discussed it with Leonie's mother and we felt now would be an appropriate time to move them. She has said that she is very grateful for everything that everybody left at the scene.''