Pete arms himself with speed gun to target drivers who break the law

By alex keller news reporter

CARELESS drivers speeding along a Burntwood road have spurred one resident into taking action to combat the problem.

Pete Shorthouse, of Chase Road, decided to volunteer his services for a neighbourhood Speedwatch scheme amid mounting fears of a serious accident.

Launched with the backing of Burntwood police, residents have been trained to use a radar speed check gun to identify drivers who flout the traffic laws.

"Those caught get a warning letter from the police station requesting that their speed is curtailed," said Mr Shorthouse.

"On a second occasion, offenders will be dealt with by the police in the most appropriate way."

That could mean a driver's rehabilitation course or even a fine and penalty points on their licence.

Volunteers using the equipment must wear high-visibility vests and display a warning sign alerting motorists.

Mr Shorthouse and another five public-spirited residents received full training to use the radar gun, which was paid for out of Burntwood county councillor Paul Atkins' £1,000 community fund.

"Due to the traffic problems on Chase Road, residents wanted to get one of these machines to see if they can resolve the problems themselves," said Councillor Atkins. "The equipment has already been trialled in Boney Hay and that seems to have been successful."

There have been around five accidents in two years on the stretch of Chase Road leading from the Burntwood Green island towards Chasetown.

The route is becoming steadily busier and there are fears the combination of traffic and children walking to school is a tragedy waiting to happen.

"Residents are trying to cut down the possibility of someone being killed," added Cllr Atkins.

"We need to have the community involved and it is great that Mr Shorthouse and the others have volunteered to be part of the project."

Burntwood Police Community Support Officer Lisa Goring added: "It is excellent news that the Chase Road Speedwatch scheme has such local support and great to see residents putting something back the community."