A CAMPAIGN to reinstate traffic patrols to help drivers with vertigo and claustrophobia cross the Dartford Crossing is under way.

Jeffrey Goodwin and Albert Smith have launched Reinstate Assisted Dartford Crossing Escort Patrols (RADCEP) and started an online petition.

This follows the Highways Agency stopping its scheme to provide escorts for drivers suffering from a fear of heights across the bridge and motorists with claustrophobia through the tunnel.

Mr Goodwin, 60, from Basildon, Essex, said: “I am extremely upset the Highways Agency withdrew the assisted escort patrols, which has adversely affected me and others in not being able to see family and friends.”

The retired bank official, who suffers from a fear of heights, was comfortable to use the bridge when he knew the escorts were available, but says the thought now “petrifies” him.

Traffic officers began escorting scared drivers after a man got stuck on the bridge a couple of years ago, but were not required by law to provide the service.

A Highways Agency spokesman said: "From August 1 last year, motorists who feel unable to travel over the Dartford Crossing, either via the tunnel or bridge, have not been accompanied by traffic officers, except in emergencies.

“This brought Dartford in line with similar crossings on major rivers, such as the Severn Crossing.

"At the time, we wrote to those drivers who had been accompanied during that period to inform them of the changes.

"The Highways Agency did not take this decision lightly but would like to remind road users they have a responsibility to themselves and others to be fit to drive and to make prudent choices as to the routes they travel."

In response, Mr Goodwin reiterated that the Dartford Crossing was ”completely different” to the Severn Crossing.

“It’s unique,” he said.

“Bridges elsewhere are flat, whilst this one goes up to the sky.

“I resent that the agency implies that I am unfit to drive.

“A fear of heights does not mean I am not safe on the roads.

“The escort service should never have been stopped and I plan to get it reinstated.”