Penkhull and Hartshill Community Speed Watch are gearing up to catch more speeding motorists thanks to a grant from the Police and Crime Commissioner’s People Power Fund.
Penkhull Residents Association were awarded £363 which has allowed volunteers to purchase a handheld radar device in order to monitor motorists’ speeds and issue safety advice or warning letters.
The Community group currently have 9 trained volunteers who regularly take to the roads to encourage safer driving in the Penkhull and Hartshill area.
Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis said:
‘The best ideas to reduce crime, social harm and anti-social behaviour often come from communities affected by those issues. That’s why, since 2013 I’ve increased the funding provided for simple things that make local areas safer and better to live in.
‘Tackling the issues, building community spirit and often reducing repeat demand on policing means providing that financial help at the most local level is really cost effective.
‘Volunteers play a huge role in society and members of Penkhull Residents Association are doing a great job to tackle speeding in their community and make local roads safer.’
Barbara Andrew, Community Speed Watch Coordinator said:
‘We are very grateful to Mr Ellis for funding our own equipment so we no longer have to borrow other people’s kit.
‘We go out seven days a week to different locations to remind drivers of the safe and legal speed limit in their area and to record those drivers who are exceeding the speed limit.
‘We will also be recording details of any drivers seen using a mobile phone which will then be reported to Staffordshire Police.
‘We volunteer in the hope that we can contribute to a safer environment for pedestrians and drivers in our area.’
You can become a Speed Watch volunteer by emailing Barbara Andrew on barbaraandrew213@btinternet.com or calling 01782 414584.
