Community Speedwatch group launched in Yatton

A new community Speedwatch group has been launched in Yatton in an attempt to slow down motorists driving through the village.

The new group was launched as part of a road safety week organised by Yatton Local Action Team (LAT) in conjunction with the police.

Community Speedwatch is a scheme operating in many parts of North Somerset where local volunteers monitor the speed of vehicles at varied locations using special handheld recording equipment.

If a driver is exceeding the speed limit, a warning letter is triggered and if caught for a second time, the driver will then risk prosecution which could lead to points on their licence and a fine.

The LAT has been asking motorists to sign a pledge form, promising to drive more carefully through the village – with more than 100 people signing up.

The group has also put up an eye-catching banner in the High Street which says 'Slower, Safer Yatton' to highlight the road safety week message.

Yatton LAT spokeswoman, Juley Howard, said: "When we have asked people about their concerns, road safety is one of the hot topics.

"Road Safety Week gave us the chance to take some action to try to improve road safety in Yatton and we are delighted by the response we received."

The group is now looking for volunteers to help with the Speedwatch and commit a minimum of around 45 minutes per month.

Anyone wanting to help can contact Juley Howard on 01934 876698 or alternatively, speak to Yatton beat officer, PC Phil Kinsella, at Clevedon Police Station.