A petition has been launched to make a zebra crossing safer following the death of a schoolboy who was hit by a minibus.

The 11-year-old – who has been named locally as Szymon – passed away in hospital after suffering multiple injuries.

A teenager – who was also a pedestrian – was later arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following the tragedy on Wednesday morning.

The arrested boy, who comes from the Gravesend area, was quizzed before being released while officers continue their inquiries. The teen has been told to return to the police station on February 17.

Although the circumstances of the incident are still under investigation, a concerned parent is calling for a lollipop man or woman to be employed to help people over the crossing.

Zoe Safari, who started the campaign, said: "I know it is under different circumstances however there has been concerns with the actual crossing for some time."

The 35-year-old – who lives a road down from the school, in Waterdales – said that having a patrol at the crossing would help to deter cars which may be going too fast and force them to stop.

She added: "It would help these children feel safe. A lot of parents have the same concern. They are children and they will take a risk but if there is someone patrolling the road, drivers will think.

"It would save so many lives."

The mum-of-four started the petition after seeing for herself the dangers of the crossing and feeling concerned about her son and daughter who walk that way to school.

She said: "If these children have this support, it will not only make it safer for them but also the whole community.

"It should have been done a long time ago. It will make life so much easier."

Zoe said many parents and children feel anxious crossing that part of the road and now feel even more worried.

"I believe that every child should feel safe to cross that road and get to school safely," she said. "I do not want this to happen to anyone else.

"My sincere condolences go out to the young boy who tragically lost his life and his family. Let us make a change in his honour."

At the time of writing more than 1,330 people had signed in support of the campaign. You can find the petition here.

Tributes including candles, flowers, cards and basketballs have since been laid on the pavement near the crossing in Northfleet for the 11-year-old.

Today even more were added to the other side of the crossing with an addition of a basketball hoodie.

Kent Police are still appealing for witnesses following the fatal collision close to the junction with Colyer Road and Park Avenue involving the youngster and a white Mercedes Sprinter minibus.

Officers and ambulance crews, including the air ambulance went to the scene at 8.25am on Wednesday.

The area was cordoned off by police while paramedics treated the youngster.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, or who saw either the child or vehicle in the moments leading up to it, is urged to contact police on 01622 798538 quoting reference 02-0167.

Drivers are also asked to check dashcams for any footage which may assist the investigation.

There is also a live link page where witnesses can get in touch directly with the police. Click here to find it.