THE mother of a 13-year-old girl knocked down and killed by a speeding driver racing his girlfriend in a different car has praised two young girls' road safety efforts.

Jane Hofmeister, who set up the Think Amy road safety charity following the death of her daughter on Blackbrook Way, Taunton, in June 2011, was speaking after delivering 1,000 hi vis vests to seven local primary schools.

Among the schools was West Monkton, where Year 5 pupils Eliza and Lia have been at the forefront of efforts to cut down speeding and dangerous parking outside the gates.

A team of pupils are on a rota to monitor parking and speeding every morning and afternoon.

West Monkton Primary School pastoral co-ordinator Louisa Blackmore praised the girls' efforts.

She said: "Eliza and Lia are passionate about road safety and all the children have become really interested to find out about Think Amy after Jane provided the hi vis vests.

"They want to raise awareness about parking and speed and are making 20mph signs to hold up to advise drivers because they think some cars are going too fast.

"The parents are really positive about us being out there.

"They children have lots of ideas and want to organise events to raise money for Think Amy."

The cash for the vests came from events at the White Horse, in Bradford-on-Tone, and Blackbrook Leisure Centre and Spa.

Mrs Hofmeister said: "I really wanted to be able to do something to help road safety in Taunton, especially for children.

"These vests will be used on all outdoor activities, therefore keeping the pupils safe, raising awareness of Think Amy and keeping my daughter's memory alive.

"It was wonderful to go along to the schools, meet some of the pupils and to see them wearing the vests.

"I was particularly impressed to see that West Monkton have created their own road safety group initiated by Eliza and Lia. This filled my heart so much and was a joy to see.

"It would be great if we could help and encourage other primary schools to develop their own road safety initiatives.

"I would like to thank the community for all the love and support they continue to give.

"If we can all please Think Amy each and every time we put our keys in the ignition and do our part in keeping the roads as safe as possible."

Other schools to receive Think Amy vests were Thurlbear, Creech St Michael, Holway Park, St James, St George's and Holy Trinity.