A community speedwatch campaign has been launched in Kesgrave and Rushmere St Andrew in a drive to curb accidents and dangerous road use across the area.

The Suffolk police-supported campaign has been set up by Rushmere Parish Council and Kesgrave Town Council after reports of drivers ignoring the 30mph speed limits.

Councillors from the two parishes said that by reducing speeding vehicles the chances of serious and fatal accidents to pedestrians, cyclists and motorists will be reduced.

Kesgrave Town Council chairman Neal Beecroft-Smith said: “Traffic, and speeding especially, have been issues continuously raised by the local residents in and around Kesgrave.

“This joint community scheme is an ideal opportunity for residents to work together for the community, creating a safer place to live and work.”

The scheme features a team of volunteers who use speed guns to clock drivers exceeding 35mph and take their vehicle and registration details which are passed on to Suffolk police officers.

Officers can then issue a second warning for repeat offenders before tougher measures are introduced.

Volunteers are now being sought to sign-up for the hour-long sessions, with full training in using the guns being given by Suffolk police. Equipment for the project has been funded by Suffolk county councillor for Kesgrave and Rushmere St Andrew, Robert Whiting.

A town council spokesman added: “Although 30mph can seem quite sedentary when you are driving along a straight road, the reasons for it in built up areas are in recognition of the increased risk of an accident and that at speed, there is less time to react if the vehicle in front stops suddenly, you need to avoid a pot hole or a child runs into the road.

“The implications for pedestrians are that it is more difficult and dangerous to cross the road, the risk is further increased if the pedestrian is elderly, disabled or very young.

“Speeding vehicles are a risk to cyclists and deters some people from considering cycling as a mode of transport.”

For more information and to join email communityspeedwatch@suffolk.pnn.police.uk.