A new footpath in Cobham will help children get to school safely.

The path is currently being built along the edge of Downside Cobham to help pupils from St Matthews Infants School.

Elmbridge Council officers consulted the community after a request from the school to provide a safe route along the common from the Cricketers pub where children are dropped off for school.

St Matthews has started fundraising to pay for the foothpath after the council gave the go ahead for it to be built.

Residents were assured the path would be in keeping with the commons and not alter the overall appearance of this highly popular open space.

Councillor Jan Fuller, portfolio holder for leisure and culture, said: “The new path will help children get to school safely.

"It will put their parents’ mind at rest that they will not be crossing the commons on their own but follow a secure path walking alongside a peer group.”