Published: Wednesday, 13th August, 2008 2:45pm

VILLAGERS WILL STOP TRAFFIC

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Concerned volunteers have come up with a unique way to stop speeding motorists zooming through their village.

Safety-minded Howwood residents are the first villagers in Renfrewshire to record these driving crimes as part of the community speedwatch scheme.

They have started to stand near the electronic speed sign on Main Street and when it flashes up more than 30 miles per hour the recorders have been jotting down the offending vehicle’s number plate and description.

A list of law breakers is then sent to the police. Renfrewshire Council have been assisting the activists by providing them with the necessary equipment to carry out the checks.

These include a folding advance warning sign, a display screen box with power cord and cigarette lighter plug, a battery case with charger, testing tuning fork and power socket, high visibility waistcoats and a copy of an anti-aggression letter to hand out to any angry motorists. They even supply a yellow community speedwatch umbrella to keep the recorder and recording sheets dry.

Volunteer Andrew Wilson said: “The scheme is important because it makes people think what speed they are doing in a built up area, the speed monitor flashes up the speed they are doing. Schools will be going back soon, kids crossing roads; and their are many other pedestrians around.

“The speed limit is 30mph for a good reason, most pedestrians survive if hit by a car doing 30, most of them die if the car is doing 40.

“Several parents with young kids have volunteered to help, so I think the message is getting across. Unfortunately there is a lawless minority who could not care less about the safety of others, and I hope we record some of them speeding.

“We have seen several drivers using their mobile, over the speed limit in a built up area, but unfortunately going in the other direction from the one we were monitoring.”

Road bosses have warned volunteers not to get involved in disputes with motorists and told them to report any threats, acts of intimidation or violence.