RESIDENTS in the Whittlesey area have called for action to tackle the problem of speeding, particularly in Benwick.

It was made a top priority by those attending last week’s Whittlesey and District Neighbourhood Forum – and police are now seeking volunteers to help form a new Speedwatch group, concentrating on the village.

Speedwatch groups go out with police and their specialist equipment to deter motorists from exceeding the speed limits. A pool of about 15 volunteers is needed to make any local scheme viable.

Full training is provided by police and PCSO Melanie Bull, from the Whittlesey neighbourhood policing team, has arranged a session for February 27 from 1-4pm at Whittlesey Police Station.

Councillor Steve Garratt, chairman of the Whittlesey and District Neighbourhood Forum, encouraged residents to put their names forward.

“Speeding is a big problem that poses a serious danger to lives and that is clearly the case in Benwick,” he said. “Forming a Speedwatch group with police is one way people can help tackle it.”

Anyone wanting to find out more should call PCSO Bull on 0345 456 4564 (ext 6517) or e-mail melanie.bull@cambs.pnn.police.uk

The need for road safety barriers in Pondersbridge was another of the issues that the forum agreed should be made a priority for action over the next three months.

Two additional priorities agreed for the police were anti-social behaviour in St Mary’s Ward and inconsiderate parking in Whittlesey.

Those agreed for other agencies included the play park and the surface of the playing area in Benwick and the lack of provision and amenities for young people in Benwick.