Police and A1101 safety campaigners hold day of action at accident black spot

A DAY of action by safety campaigners and police to alert drivers to the dangers of a Fenland black spot has been hailed as a success.

Monday's initiative organised by the A1101 Sutton Road Accident Black-Spot Team and Cambridgeshire Police was to raise awareness of the notorious stretch of road which is one of the worst in the country.

Police carried out checks on speed and vehicle deficiencies and this was followed up by campaigners giving information and handing out leaflets.

Inspector Alan Page from the Roads Policing Unit said: "The aim of the day was to highlight the dangers of speeding to drivers using the A1101. There are a number of signs along the road which tell drivers that it is a high casualty route.

"However, it is the manner in which people drive that endangers their lives and the lives of others, not the road itself. People need to adapt their speed to the road in order to stay safe and if that message can prevent just one death then the day will have been a great success."

Campaigner Virginia Bucknor said the team had been delighted with the support from police who maintained a substantial and very visible presence throughout the morning.

She said: "Although the main remit was to inform the public, it didn't stop the police officers carrying out other duties checking speeds and vehicle deficiencies in a courteous manner.

"After the police talked to drivers the ABS Team had an opportunity to have a quick chat and to explain why we were there and ask them if they were aware of the road's reputation of being the site of many bad and fatal accidents."

A �300,000 bid for a safety scheme for the road has already been given top priority by Cambridgeshire County Council. However, campaigners remain convinced that a speed reduction to 40mph is needed.