Road safety campaigner Lauren Doherty shares her story with Ashville Prep School pupils

Published by Ashville College on Monday 12th of December 2022

A road safety campaigner, left paralysed after being hit by a van on a night out, has shared her harrowing story with pupils from Harrogate’s Ashville Prep School.

Lauren Doherty was joined by representatives from North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service at the presentation.

Fourteen years ago, Lauren was involved in a serious road traffic accident when she was knocked over whilst walking home from a friend’s house. As a result of the accident, Lauren was left paralysed and requires significant care.

She has responded heroically to the challenges posed by her life-changing injuries, and has set out to educate children and adults on the importance of road safety.

Lauren, from Knaresborough, has an established relationship with the school, returning regularly to inform pupils about the dangers of the roads and how to keep safe.

In addition to hearing from Lauren, the Year 6 pupils also watched a short film and presentations from Harrogate-based police and fire officers.

The pupils were also given the chance to look at a fire engine and police van, as well as accompanying equipment.

Ashville Prep School Head Asa Firth said: “We are so grateful to have had Lauren speak to the Year 6 pupils on the subject of road safety as part of the National Road Safety Week.

“The pupils listened to Lauren with exceptional maturity. They understood the seriousness of her message, and took onboard what Lauren had to say regarding the importance of staying safe on the road.

“We are also thankful to Harrogate Fire Station and Harrogate Police, who reinforced Lauren’s message with a short film and presentations. Pupils were also allowed to see fire-service and police equipment, which they all enjoyed immensely.

“We look forward to the continuation of Lauren’s relationship with the school, which provides valuable teaching around the significant issue of road safety.”

For more information about Ashville Prep School, please visit www.ashville.co.uk or call 01423 566358.