Community Speed Watch targets speeding motorists in Furness Vale

Volunteers from the local community have been working alongside officers from the Whaley Bridge and Furness Vale Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team to monitor speeding traffic in their neighbourhood.

The most recent session took place on Monday, January 25 on the A6 at Furness Vale, an area which has been highlighted as a concern for local residents.

The Speed Watch scheme, which is funded by Derbyshire Constabulary, involves training members of the community to use radar guns to catch those breaking the limit.

There are now a total of 11 volunteers fully trained to use the speed radar guns and another two who are currently awaiting training.

The volunteers spend time patrolling with local police officers and PCSOs and those caught by the Speed Watch receive a written warning from Derbyshire Constabulary.

Community Speed Watch first started in the area in 2009, after speeding vehicles and dangerous driving was made a policing priority for the community.

The priority was finally closed at the last meeting on January 13 2010, after residents felt there had been improvements on the issue.

A matrix sign, which lights up as any motorist who is exceeding the speed limit approaches the stretch, has also been approved for the area by Derbyshire County Council after an appeal by local residents.

Community Speed Watch sessions will continue in places where residents feel that there is an issue, and dates have already been planned with the volunteers over the next six weeks at a number of different locations.

PCSO Tracy Jones, of the Whaley Bridge and Furness Vale Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "With the help of the local community, we have been able to get the message across to motorists to respect and stay within the 30mph limit at Furness Vale.

"The scheme will continue to help maintain the good work and it is also hoped that the matrix sign will also help to maintain this in the longer term and at all times of the day, seven days a week. We will also be on the look out for motorists who are putting other road users at risk by using a mobile phone while driving."

She added: "Our thanks go to the volunteers, residents and partner agencies who have helped us to improve this issue for the local community."

If you would like to find out more about the scheme or would be interested in becoming a Community Speed Watch volunteer call 0345 123 33 33 or email chapel.neighbourhoods@derbyshire.pnn.police.uk.

Information about current priority profiles, team members and the next meeting dates can be found at the website: www.derbyshire.police.uk.