Parents, teachers and pupils are calling for speed restrictions outside their school to stop a "dangerous rat run" which is risking the safety of pupils.

Lisa Williams, a parent governor at Garfield Primary School, said motorists frequently speed down Garfield Road using it as a cut through off Haydon's Road.

Recently a cyclist was knocked off his bike and had to be taken to hospital.

She said: "There are children coming out of the school at all hours, not just at peak times.

"We’ve got breakfast club in the morning, school club, nursery children who start at different times.

"People need to slow down at all times of the day - we are just not prepared to wait for an accident to happen before it is addressed by the council.

"We are open to options and would like to work with the council to solve this problem."

A petition has been set up to raise awareness of the dangerous rat run which has so far attracted 150 signatures.

Options include a 20mph speed limit, a zebra crossing or speed humps to help slow motorists.

Head teacher Yvonne Norman said: "Every day is a risk.

"We would rather be preventative rather than reactive.

"It’s dangerous - it gets very busy because the road is used as a cut-through when kids are coming into school.

"We need some speed humps or a zebra crossing."

Shas Sheehan, who is part of a campaign calling for 20mph speed limits across the borough, said she was "delighted" the school were calling for speed restrictions and urged Merton Council to remove any obstacles to reduce serious injuries and save lives.

Councillor Andrew Judge, cabinet member for environmental sustainability and regeneration said: "We are grateful that Garfield Primary School has brought this concern to our attention and will carry out a speed assessment of the area.

"This will help inform us as to the most effective way in which we will be able to ensure motorists drive with care, especially around the school as road safety for children must be a priority."

To sign the e-petition, visit petitions.merton.gov.uk