A cause very close to the heart

Improving road safety for children travelling to school is a cause very close to the hearts of those behind a charity which has part-funded two bodyworn cameras in West Sussex.

The Ellie Thornton Foundation was launched in memory of 11-year-old Ellie, who was a pupil at Rydon Community College – now Steyning Grammar.

Ellie died after being involved in a road traffic accident in Storrington Road while walking to school in March 2017.

The foundation, established in her name by her parents Ben and Vicky Thornton, was officially launched last year.

The charity part-funded its first body-worn camera for the school crossing patrol at Buckingham Park Primary School in Shoreham, where the Thorntons’ son is a pupil, following concerns about anti-social driving by some motorists by the school.

Mr Thornton said: “This being quite close to our hearts, we wanted to be part of the process.”

Last year, it partfunded a second camera in partnership with Thakeham Primary and neighbouring Steyning Grammar.

Mr Thornton said of the equipment: “I think it helps.

“We feel that it has made some difference. It’s a deterrent and it can only help.”

He said he hoped the charity would be able to help fund more of the devices and urged schools to contact West Sussex County Council to register their interest.

With the second anniversary of Ellie’s death coming up, Mr Thornton said: “It’s a tough time and finding ways that we can make a small difference is important to us.”

Find out more about the charity at elliethorntonfoundation. org.uk