Parents are being urged to park sensibly when dropping their children off to school in a bid to reduce accident numbers.

A campaign will see banners displayed outside schools in Aberdeenshire where there are parking problems.

People are also being asked to consider parking further away from schools and walking the remaining distance with their children.

Aberdeenshire Council and the Garioch and North Marr Community Safety Group have joined up to launch the initiative.

Ron McKail, community safety group chairman, said: "The safety of pupils is of paramount importance. Taking a few moments to think about parking sensibly can make such a difference.

"Parents may also want to think about parking further away from the school so they can walk together with their child.

"A bit of fresh air can help stimulate your son or daughter before they begin lessons, helping them to perform well in the classroom."

The year-long campaign, Park Smart, will provide schools with resources and information, classroom lesson plans as well as homework that can be used in intervals throughout the year with the intention of creating long-term behavioural change.

It is intended that Park Smart could be rolled out to other schools in the future.

Kellands Primary School in Inverurie has agreed to trial these materials.

Graeme Mollison, the school's head teacher, said: "We know that some pupils need to be driven to school, and that most drivers behave responsibly. But the actions of a few are putting pupils, parents and staff at risk.

"Park Smart and the North Garioch and Marr Community Safety Group's campaigns' will help pupils and people bringing them to school understand why it is important to park responsibly, every day.

"I encourage all members of the school community to question whether they need to drive on a regular basis, and if they do to always park or wait in locations that don't endanger other people."