MP Evan Harris has appealed for buses to slow down in Oxford's High Street to abide by a voluntary speed limit.

The MP for Oxford West and Abingdon made his plea days after cyclist Isobell Beckett, 45, of Hillsborough Road, Rose Hill, was killed after a collision with a bus, and following complaints from shopkeepers and residents.

He is calling on Oxford's bus companies to monitor the speeds of buses in the High Street and ensure that drivers stick to the agreed 20mph limit.

Dr Harris said: "It is very important that buses set an example to other vehicles, particularly under the new traffic scheme in the High Street, and keep themselves to 20mph. "If the High Street is truly to be calmed and become an area where pedestrians and cyclists can feel safe, and where traders can continue to thrive, it is important that the environment is protected from the sound and danger of buses thundering past."

He said a survey carried out by Oxford bus companies and the city council in the High Street and St Aldate's found some buses were exceeding the voluntary 20mph speed limit.

Dr Harris said he had received assurances from the Oxford Bus Company that vehicle speeds would be regularly monitored and action would be taken against drivers who consistently broke the limit. He is hoping that Stagecoach will take a similarly strong line.